Tehran, Iran – The Iranian national football team may not play its 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage matches in the United States, as the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) is in discussions with FIFA to relocate those games to Mexico. The move comes after statements from U.S. President Donald Trump raised serious concerns about the team’s safety and security during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FFIRI President Mehdi Taj stated unequivocally, “After US President Donald Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot guarantee the security of the Iranian national team, we will definitely not travel to America.” Taj revealed the ongoing negotiations with FIFA to shift Iran’s matches to Mexico, a decision prompted by what Tehran views as a credible threat to its players and delegation. This development throws a new layer of political complexity onto the already highly anticipated 2026 World Cup.
The initial concern stemmed from remarks made by President Trump, who, while expressing a desire for the Iranian team to not participate, also stated they would be “naturally welcome” despite ongoing tensions. However, the core issue for Iranian officials is Trump’s admission that his administration cannot ensure the team’s safety. This admission, according to Taj, has deepened existing anxieties within the Iranian football federation and government.
Adding to the diplomatic friction, Abolfazl Pasandideh, the Iranian ambassador to Mexico, publicly criticized the U.S. Government’s lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and logistical support for the Iranian delegation. Pasandideh formally proposed to FIFA that Iran’s World Cup matches be moved, citing these difficulties as further justification for the relocation request. The ambassador’s statement underscores the broader challenges Iran anticipates in navigating the logistical and political landscape of participating in a tournament hosted in the United States.
Iran was originally scheduled to play its group stage matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium, followed by a match in Seattle against Egypt. The team had also planned to establish its base camp in Tucson, Arizona. These plans are now in jeopardy as FIFA considers the FFIRI’s request. The potential shift to Mexico would require significant logistical adjustments, impacting travel arrangements, accommodation, and training facilities.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) currently anticipates Iran’s participation in the World Cup, despite the ongoing discussions. AFC General Secretary Windsor John stated at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, “To our knowledge, Iran will play.” However, this assessment is contingent on a resolution to the security concerns and a satisfactory agreement with FIFA regarding the match locations. The AFC’s position reflects a desire to witness Iran compete in the tournament, but acknowledges the complexities of the situation.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the largest in history, featuring 104 matches. The tournament will kick off at Mexico City Stadium on June 11 and culminate with the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19. The expanded format, with 48 teams participating, adds to the logistical challenges of hosting the event across three countries. The potential relocation of Iran’s matches introduces an unforeseen complication to an already ambitious undertaking.
While the Iranian government has considered a full boycott of the World Cup, no final decision has been made. The possibility of a boycott underscores the severity of the concerns within Iran regarding the political climate surrounding the tournament. However, the FFIRI appears to be prioritizing securing a safe and secure environment for its team, and relocation to Mexico is currently viewed as the most viable solution.
The situation remains fluid, and FIFA is expected to make a decision on the relocation request in the coming weeks. The outcome will have significant implications for both Iran and the overall organization of the 2026 World Cup. The security of all participating teams is paramount, and FIFA will need to carefully weigh the concerns raised by Iran against the logistical challenges of altering the tournament schedule and venue assignments.
This developing story highlights the intersection of sports and politics, and the challenges of hosting a global event in a world marked by geopolitical tensions. The Iranian team’s concerns are not isolated, and other nations may also raise security concerns as the tournament approaches. FIFA will need to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, and to upholding the principles of fair play and inclusivity.
The next update from FIFA regarding this matter is expected within the next two weeks. Fans and stakeholders will be closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds, hoping for a resolution that allows Iran to participate in the World Cup under safe and secure conditions. Archysport will continue to provide updates as they grow available.
