Global football body FIFA has rejected Iran’s request to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, insisting that all fixtures will proceed as originally scheduled despite rising geopolitical tensions.
The decision was confirmed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who said FIFA ruled out any changes due to the logistical complexity such a move would create.
“FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” Sheinbaum said during a press briefing in Mexico City, reaffirming the governing body’s position.
Iran had earlier pushed for the relocation of its matches over security concerns, particularly following remarks by former US President Donald Trump suggesting that participation in the United States might not be safe for the Iranian team.
However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino made it clear there would be no alternative arrangements, stressing that the tournament would proceed strictly according to the official draw and schedule.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup—jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada—will be the first edition featuring 48 teams. Iran, one of the early qualifiers from Asia, is placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.
Their group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in US cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle, between mid and late June.
Iran’s football authorities had expressed concern over player safety and hinted at possible withdrawal if assurances were not provided. The country’s sports ministry also indicated that participation could be reconsidered if the venue issue was not resolved.
Despite Mexico’s openness to hosting Iran’s fixtures, FIFA maintained that relocating matches would disrupt ticketing, logistics, and broadcast arrangements, making the proposal unfeasible.
VANGUARD