FIFA has indicated it will not relocate Iran’s scheduled 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, despite ongoing discussions initiated by Iranian football officials. The Islamic Republic of Iran Football Federation had publicly stated it was negotiating with the global governing body to move its group-stage games out of the U.S., citing security apprehensions.
The team is set to play in Los Angeles and Seattle during the tournament. Recent geopolitical tensions, including military actions involving the United States, have fueled concerns within Iran about the safety of its delegation. These worries were amplified last week when former U.S. President Donald Trump suggested Iranian players’ “life and safety” could be endangered on American soil.
In a social media post attributed to the federation’s president, Iran confirmed it was engaged in talks with FIFA regarding a potential venue change to Mexico. However, FIFA’s response emphasized routine planning discussions with all qualified nations and reaffirmed the current match schedule.
According to sources familiar with the matter, altering the venue for Iran’s matches at this stage presents significant logistical and commercial hurdles. Millions of tickets have already been sold, and global broadcasting and sponsorship arrangements are firmly in place based on the existing fixture list. Iran is drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. A potential knockout-stage match against the United States in Dallas adds another layer of complexity to any schedule change.
Some observers suggest the situation reflects a diplomatic standoff, with both nations potentially positioning themselves to blame the other should Iran ultimately not participate, leaving FIFA to navigate the impasse.
A final decision is not expected before FIFA’s congress at the end of April, with the organization’s stated preference remaining for Iran’s full participation. Should Iran withdraw after the final draw—an unprecedented scenario in the modern World Cup era—FIFA holds exclusive authority to select a replacement. Iraq, as the highest-ranked Asian team not already qualified, is considered the frontrunner, pending the outcome of its own upcoming playoff matches.
