Iran will participate in the World Cup ‘for sure’ despite war, FIFA president says

WASHINGTON —FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that Iran will play in the World Cup in the United States this summer “for sure” despite the war. Speaking at CNBC’s Invest in America Forum, Infantino said it is important that Iran participates in the World Cup even though its participation has been in doubt since the US and Israel launched airstrikes on the country. “The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes,” Infantino said. “We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play.” The comments come as peace talks between Iran and the United States have not yet resumed, and a cease-fire is set to expire next week. President Donald Trump has said that it would not be “appropriate” for Iran to participate in the tournament this summer and that it may be a risk for the players’ “own life and safety.” Infantino met with the Iranian national team in Antalya, Turkey, two weeks ago and said on Wednesday he was impressed. “I went to see them. They are actually quite a good team as well,” Infantino said. “And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics now.” Infantino acknowledged it’s not always possible to achieve the separation of sports and politics.“OK we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” Infantino said. “But you know if there is nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well we are doing that job.” The United States will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico.Iran is scheduled to play two group-stage games in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle. — Agencies