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

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday underlined the body's commitment to making sure the World Cup goes ahead "as scheduled" with "all teams" taking part amid doubts about Iran's presence at the tournament. "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.

"FIFA has a schedule. The association will soon have the 48 competing teams confirmed, and they want the World Cup to go ahead as scheduled." Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Tuesday that her country is prepared to host Iran's first-round matches if required.