FIFA has declined Iran’s request to move its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, confirming that fixtures will proceed according to the schedule announced in December 2025. The decision follows concerns raised by Iranian officials over security and logistics amid the ongoing US-Israeli war involving Iran.
The issue affects Iran’s participation in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. FIFA said it remains in contact with all participating teams and expects matches to be played as planned, underscoring the importance of maintaining the agreed tournament structure.
FIFA stance and scheduling
In a statement, FIFA said it is “in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran,” and is preparing for teams to compete under the existing match schedule released on December 6, 2025.
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Iran had sought to relocate its matches to Mexico, citing security concerns following the escalation of hostilities that began on February 28. The request was also linked to concerns over travel arrangements and visa processing.
Security concerns and political responses
US President Donald Trump said Iran would be allowed to travel to the United States for its matches but questioned whether it would be appropriate given safety considerations. Iranian football authorities responded by reaffirming that the national team should not be excluded from the tournament.
Iranian football federation chief Mehdi Taj said the team would not travel to the United States if security could not be guaranteed, adding that discussions had been held with FIFA regarding alternative arrangements in Mexico.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico also criticised what he described as a lack of cooperation from Washington on visa issuance and logistical support for the delegation.
Tournament context and fixtures
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across three countries for the first time, with matches scheduled in cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada. The tournament is set to begin on June 11.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said her country is prepared to host its scheduled matches and would follow FIFA’s decisions regarding any changes.
Iran qualified for the World Cup after topping its group, becoming one of the early entrants from Asia. The team is currently scheduled to play group-stage matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle.
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