Tehran: Iran has opened discussions with FIFA over relocating its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns for its players amid escalating geopolitical tensions, The Guardian reported.
The move follows recent joint airstrikes on Iran by the United States and Israel, which have raised doubts about the safety of the Iranian team travelling to American venues. The situation intensified after remarks by Donald Trump indicating uncertainty over guaranteeing the team’s security during the tournament.
Iran’s football federation has made clear that it is unwilling to send its national team to the United States under current conditions and is actively seeking an alternative arrangement. Mexico, one of the three co-hosts alongside the U.S. and Canada, has emerged as the preferred option for hosting Iran’s matches.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, with Iran drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. Under the current schedule, Iran is set to play two group-stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. A potential knockout-stage clash with the United States in Dallas could also occur if both teams finish second in their respective groups.
FIFA has yet to issue an official response to Iran’s request. Relocating fixtures would present logistical challenges for tournament organisers, but it is not without precedent, as geopolitical tensions have previously forced neutral venues in international sport.
If FIFA declines the proposal, Iran’s participation in matches hosted in the United States remains uncertain, raising the possibility of disruption to the tournament schedule.