Iran is in talks with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico amid rising security concerns linked to the Middle East conflict.
The development was disclosed by Iran’s embassy in Mexico, citing ongoing discussions with football’s global governing body.
Iran’s football federation says it is unwilling to send its national team to the United States due to safety concerns.
The federation president, Mehdi Taj, stated that assurances from Washington were insufficient.
He referenced comments by Donald Trump suggesting that the safety of the Iranian team could not be guaranteed.
According to Taj, Iran is now pushing for all its matches to be played in Mexico instead.
Iran is currently billed to play:
- New Zealand national football team
- Belgium national football team
- Egypt national football team
The fixtures are planned to take place in U.S. cities including Los Angeles and Seattle.
The team’s base camp had also been scheduled for Tucson, Arizona.
Diplomatic Tensions Complicate Tournament Plans
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, criticised the U.S. government over visa delays and logistical challenges facing the Iranian delegation.
He confirmed that Iran has formally suggested relocating its matches to Mexico to avoid potential disruptions.
The ambassador also raised concerns about the broader diplomatic environment affecting the team’s participation.
FIFA Yet To Issue Official Response
Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, had earlier indicated that participating teams would be welcomed by host nations.
However, FIFA has not yet issued an official response to Iran’s request for relocation.
The situation remains fluid as organisers weigh security, logistics, and tournament integrity.
Middle East Conflict Casts Shadow Over Tournament
Iran’s World Cup participation has been thrown into uncertainty following escalating tensions involving the United States and Israel.
The conflict has raised concerns about the safety of teams, travel arrangements, and diplomatic relations ahead of the tournament.
Despite the tensions, Iranian officials insist that the country cannot be excluded from the competition.
Uncertainty Ahead Of 2026 World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is expected to be the largest in history.
However, geopolitical tensions are now emerging as a key challenge for organisers.
Whether Iran’s matches will be relocated remains unclear, but the situation highlights how global conflicts can directly impact international sporting events.
