Iran Football Federation is in talks with FIFA over a potential relocation of their 2026 World Cup fixtures from the United States to Mexico, citing safety concerns for players and staff, MySportDab Reports.
Iranian FA president Mehdi Taj confirmed the development on Monday, stating that assurances over the team’s security in the United States remain uncertain following escalating geopolitical tensions.
The situation intensified after joint air strikes involving the US and Israel targeted Iran, raising doubts over the nation’s participation in the tournament.
US President Donald Trump recently said Iran would be allowed to compete but suggested it may not be appropriate for them to play matches on American soil due to safety concerns. Taj responded firmly, noting that Iran would not travel to the US if security cannot be guaranteed.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to kick off on June 11, will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Iran, who qualified by topping their group in the Asian qualifiers, are currently scheduled to play two group-stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.
Their Group G opponents include Belgium national football team, Egypt national football team, and New Zealand national football team.
A potential relocation to Mexico would represent a significant logistical adjustment for tournament organisers, though similar precedents exist. Matches have previously been moved due to political or security issues, including neutral venue arrangements in international football and cricket competitions.
If FIFA rejects Iran’s request, participation in the US leg of the tournament appears unlikely under current conditions. Reports suggest that an official withdrawal could force FIFA to seek a replacement nation, a rare occurrence in modern World Cup history.
However, the Asian Football Confederation has stated it has received no formal notice of withdrawal, with General Secretary Windsor John confirming that Iran still intends to compete as things stand.