Iran Seeks to Relocate World Cup Matches to Mexico Amid Security Concerns

Los Angeles, CA – March 17, 2026 – The Iranian national football team is exploring the possibility of having its group stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup relocated from the United States to Mexico, according to statements released Monday by the Iranian embassy in Mexico. This move comes amid growing concerns over the safety and security of the team, fueled by recent comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The situation unfolded as Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, indicated that negotiations with FIFA are underway to shift the matches. “Given that (President Trump) has clearly stated he cannot guarantee the safety of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not go to the United States,” Taj said, as reported via the Iranian embassy’s X account. “We are in negotiations with FIFA to have Iran’s matches at the World Cup held in Mexico.”

FIFA acknowledged it is in regular contact with all participating federations, including Iran, to discuss logistical planning for the tournament. Although, the global governing body expressed its expectation that all teams will adhere to the previously announced match schedule, which designates the United States as the host nation for Iran’s group stage games. The initial schedule, released on December 6, 2025, outlines matches for the “Team Melli” against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and against Egypt in Seattle.

Security Concerns and Diplomatic Friction

The push for relocation stems from remarks made by Donald Trump last week, where he suggested that Iranian players would not be safe on U.S. Soil, without specifying any particular threats. This statement prompted a response from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who claimed Trump had assured him the Iranian team would be welcomed. Despite this assurance, the Iranian Football Federation remains unconvinced.

Adding to the complexity, Abolfazl Pasandideh, the Iranian ambassador to Mexico, issued a statement lamenting “the lack of cooperation from the U.S. Government in issuing visas and providing logistical support” to the Iranian delegation. He further revealed that he had personally suggested to FIFA that Iran’s matches be moved to Mexico. This diplomatic friction underscores the sensitivity surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The potential shift in venue raises logistical questions about the tournament’s infrastructure and scheduling. Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are the Mexican cities slated to host matches during the 2026 World Cup. A change would require FIFA to reassess venue availability and potentially adjust the overall tournament schedule.

Recent Regional Tensions Add to Uncertainty

The situation is further complicated by escalating tensions in the Middle East. The recent joint offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory missile and drone attacks, have heightened geopolitical instability. This volatile environment likely contributes to the Iranian Football Federation’s concerns about the safety of its team and delegation.

It’s worth noting that in March 2026, Iran’s Minister of Sports initially suggested the country might not participate in the World Cup at all, a position that appears to have softened with the pursuit of relocating matches. The Iranian team was originally scheduled to establish its base camp in Tucson, Arizona, but that plan is now uncertain pending a resolution to the security concerns.

The Iranian Football Federation’s move to seek a venue change highlights the intersection of sports and politics. The 2026 World Cup, already notable as the first to be co-hosted by three nations, now faces the challenge of navigating complex geopolitical issues to ensure the safe and successful participation of all teams.

For fans following the story, the next key development will be FIFA’s official response to Iran’s request. The organization is expected to provide an update on the status of negotiations in the coming weeks. Archysport will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they develop into available.

Key Takeaways:

• Iran is negotiating with FIFA to move its 2026 World Cup matches from the U.S. To Mexico.
• The request is driven by security concerns stemming from comments made by Donald Trump.
• FIFA acknowledges the discussions but maintains its current schedule for the tournament.
• Escalating tensions in the Middle East add another layer of complexity to the situation.
• The Iranian Football Federation initially considered withdrawing from the tournament altogether.

Stay tuned to Archysport for the latest developments on this evolving story. Share your thoughts on Iran’s request in the comments below.