Soccer’s international governing body announced Saturday that it is closely monitoring the situation in Iran following recent U.S. military action against the country.
The developments occur with just months remaining before the World Cup kicks off in June, featuring games across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran secured its spot in the tournament by advancing through Asian Football Conference competition.
The Iranian national team has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. Their tournament schedule includes two matches in Los Angeles and one game in Seattle.
FIFA’s secretary general Mattias Grafstrom told reporters the organization is carefully watching how events unfold.
“I read the news (about Iran) this morning the same way you did,” Grafstrom stated during the International Football Association Board’s annual general meeting in Cardiff, Wales, according to ESPN.
“We had a meeting today and it is premature to comment in detail, but we will monitor developments around all issues around the world.”
Iran participated in the World Cup draw ceremony held in Washington, D.C. last December.
“We will continue to communicate as we always do with three (host) governments as we always do in any case. Everybody will be safe,” Grafstrom added.
