Preparations towards the world cup in Iran are attracting attention with FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his support to the team. Infantino was at the recent 5-0 Iran-Costa Rica friendly in Turkey, an action that surprised many due to the current tensions in the Middle East. His presence highlights FIFA’s interest in keeping all teams engaged ahead of the tournament.
Iran is now demanding that its World Cup matches be moved out of the United States to Mexico. The demand is in the context of political issues, with Iran mentioning the role of U.S. military intervention in regional disputes in addition to Israeli intervention. These strains have led to the Iranian Sports Ministry banning national and club teams traveling to nations it believes to be hostile.
FIFA is adamant about its schedule, regardless of Iranese pleas. The organization has added that all eligible teams should compete based on the official match calendar announced last December. The fact that Infantino attended the friendly game is an indication that FIFA is willing to back Iran in their preparations in the field, although the venue talks could still be going on in the backroom.
This is a critical time to Iran. The squad is gaining momentum following a resounding win over Costa Rica, which has demonstrated strength and unity in the run up to the world cup. Players and staff are still concentrated on training and strategy, and performance rather than politics. The friendlies are also helping coaches to test lineups and tactics as well as make the squad world ready.
According to observers, the fact that FIFA is open to working directly with Iran may be a sign of leniency, although the association has not yet confirmed any venue change.
