World football governing body, FIFA, has rejected Iran’s request to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing major logistical challenges despite rising geopolitical tensions.
The decision was confirmed by Claudia Sheinbaum, who stated over the weekend that all matches will proceed in the United States as originally scheduled. She reiterated the earlier position of FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, who had made it clear that there were no alternative plans regarding match venues.
According to Sheinbaum, moving the fixtures would create significant logistical complications, making it impractical for FIFA to adjust the schedule. “FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” she said during a press briefing in Mexico City.
Iran, which secured early qualification for the tournament through the Asian confederation, is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, as well as Egypt in Seattle between June 15 and 27.
The request for relocation followed concerns raised by the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) over the safety of its players amid tensions linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict. The situation escalated after former US President, Donald Trump, suggested in a social media post that it might not be safe for Iran to participate in the tournament in the United States.
In response, FFIRI President Mehdi Taj warned that the team could refuse to travel if security assurances were not guaranteed. Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali also indicated that participation remained uncertain unless FIFA reconsidered the venue arrangement.
Although Mexico—co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada—had indicated a willingness to accommodate Iran’s matches, FIFA maintained its original plan. Infantino had previously engaged with Iranian players, coaches, and officials during a meeting in Türkiye on March 31, further reinforcing the organisation’s stance.
Despite mounting diplomatic tensions, FIFA insists the tournament schedule will proceed as drawn, with no changes to host venues.
