Iran’s football federation is in talks with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns amid rising Middle East tensions.
According to statements shared via Iran’s embassy, football chief Mehdi Taj confirmed that discussions are ongoing with FIFA.
“We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico,” Taj stated.
Iran were originally scheduled to play group-stage matches in the United States, including fixtures in Los Angeles and Seattle, against New Zealand national football team, Belgium national football team, and Egypt national football team. Their base camp had also been planned for Tucson, Arizona.
However, concerns escalated after comments from Donald Trump, who suggested he could not guarantee the team’s safety in the United States.
“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Taj added.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, also criticised the lack of visa cooperation and logistical support from US authorities and formally proposed moving matches to Mexico.
Despite the uncertainty, Iran has insisted its participation remains non-negotiable.
“No one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup.”
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a final decision from FIFA is now highly anticipated, as it could set a precedent for how geopolitical tensions impact global sporting events.
