Iran seeks FIFA approval to shift World Cup matches to Mexico

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11 and will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada, and Mexico.

TEHRAN: The Iran Football Federation has initiated discussions with FIFA to relocate its matches in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 to Mexico, citing growing security concerns.

According to a statement issued by the Iranian embassy, federation president Mehdi Taj confirmed that talks are underway with FIFA to ensure all of Iran’s matches are held in Mexico instead of the United States.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11 and will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada, and Mexico. Some of Iran’s fixtures are currently planned in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Tensions escalated after US President Donald Trump recently stated that Iran’s participation in the tournament may not be appropriate, citing an inability to guarantee the team’s security.

Responding to the remarks, the Iran Football Federation said that if security assurances cannot be provided at the highest level, the team would refrain from traveling to the United States. It has formally requested FIFA to move its matches to Mexico.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali noted that rising regional tensions and recent hostilities involving the U.S. and Israel have made participation in the tournament increasingly challenging for Iranian players.