Iran’s football authorities are reportedly in talks with FIFA about relocating their opening matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup from the United States to Mexico due to security concerns tied to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
According to statements shared by Iran’s diplomatic mission in Mexico, the country’s football federation has opened discussions with FIFA to explore the possibility of staging Iran’s group-stage fixtures in Mexico instead of the United States.
The issue arises amid rising tensions in the Middle East, which have cast uncertainty over Iran’s participation in matches scheduled to take place in the United States, one of the three host nations alongside Canada and Mexico.
Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, reportedly stated that the team may avoid traveling to the United States if safety guarantees cannot be provided. He said discussions are underway with FIFA about moving Iran’s matches to Mexico.
Under the current tournament schedule, Iran are expected to play group-stage games against New Zealand national football team and Belgium national football team in Los Angeles, followed by a match against Egypt national football team in Seattle.
The team’s training base for the tournament is also currently planned to be in Tucson.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, also criticised what he described as a lack of cooperation from the United States regarding visa processing and logistical support for the Iranian delegation. He said Iran had suggested relocating their matches to Mexico as a potential solution.
FIFA has not yet issued an official response regarding the request.
The situation gained further attention after comments by Donald Trump, who said that while Iran’s national team would be welcomed in the United States, traveling there could pose safety risks for them.
The uncertainty comes amid heightened tensions following military confrontations involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, which have intensified instability in the region.
For now, Iran’s participation in the tournament remains unchanged, and any decision about relocating matches will ultimately depend on FIFA.