Iran is negotiating with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup group matches from the United States to Mexico, citing severe security concerns following recent military escalations and inflammatory remarks from President Trump.
Iran’s football federation is negotiating with FIFA to move its opening World Cup matches to Mexico, citing regional conflict and safety fears.
Tensions spiked after President Donald Trump suggested the team avoid the U.S. “for their own life and safety.”
Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj responded via social media: “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.”
The Islamic Republic is scheduled to play New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.
However, Ambassador Abolfazl Pasandideh denounced the “US government’s lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance” and logistical support.
While FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously received assurances that the team would be welcome, the ongoing war has cast significant doubt on Iran’s ability to safely compete on American soil.