FIFA Rejects Iran’s Request to Move World Cup Matches from US

FIFA has ruled out any changes to the 2026 World Cup schedule, effectively shutting down Iran’s attempt to relocate its matches from the United States to Mexico amid escalating security concerns tied to the ongoing war.

In a statement, the organisation made its position clear, emphasising continuity over adjustment.

“FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” it said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”

That response comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation. Since the outbreak of the war on February 28, the question has not just been whether Iran would play — but where.

US President Donald Trump added to that ambiguity last week, saying Iran would be allowed to compete in the United States, while simultaneously raising concerns about security.

“I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.”

Iran pushed back. The national team responded publicly that “no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup”, signalling it had no intention of stepping aside.

At the same time, officials in Tehran were exploring alternatives. Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said the team would not travel to the US under current conditions.

“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.”

“We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico,” he added.

Those efforts have now run into a firm institutional boundary. FIFA’s decision to stick with the existing schedule leaves little room for relocation, at least at this stage.

Diplomatic friction has also entered the picture. Iran’s ambassador to Mexico criticised Washington over what he described as a “lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and the provisions of logistical support” for the Iranian delegation.

Mexico, for its part, has kept its position open but cautious. President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated readiness to host matches if required, while deferring to FIFA’s authority.

“Mexico maintains diplomatic relations with every country in the world, therefore, we will wait to see what FIFA decides,” she said.

The broader structure of the tournament adds complexity. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada — the first time the competition is split across three countries. Iran’s current schedule places two of its group-stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.