FIFA planning for World Cup to 'go ahead as scheduled' amid Iran uncertainty

"FIFA is looking forward to all teams participating at the World Cup to compete in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect," Infantino said from Zurich during an online FIFA Council meeting. "We have a schedule. We will soon have the 48 competing teams confirmed, and we want the World Cup to go ahead as scheduled." Iran's participation has been shrouded in doubt due to the conflict in the Middle East. They are due to play group games in the United States, against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and in Seattle against Egypt.