Iran seeks World Cup venue change to Mexico as geopolitical tensions rise

MEXICO CITY: Iran’s Embassy in Mexico said Tuesday, March 17, that the country is in discussions with FIFA to shift its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico.

The request follows recent remarks by President Donald Trump, who said it may not be “appropriate” for the Iranian team to play in the US due to concerns about their “own life and safety” amid ongoing regional tensions.

Iranian Soccer Federation President Mehdi Taj said the team would reconsider traveling to the United States if security assurances are not provided.

The 2026 tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, and any venue change at this stage would require coordination across multiple stakeholders.

Trump warnings trigger security concerns

The proposal gained traction after Trump publicly questioned whether conditions in the United States would be suitable for the Iranian team.

Taj, in a statement shared through the Iranian embassy’s X account, said the federation is evaluating alternatives if safety guarantees cannot be confirmed.

Iranian officials have said FIFA, as the tournament organizer, is responsible for ensuring the security of all participating teams.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said comments raising concerns about safety at the “highest level” have prompted further review by Iranian authorities.

Unprecedented shift for Group G matches

Iran is currently scheduled to play its Group G matches in the United States, including fixtures against New Zealand on June 16 and Belgium on June 21 in Inglewood, California, followed by a match against Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.

Relocating those matches would require adjustments to logistics, including stadium assignments, travel planning, and broadcast arrangements.

FIFA has not issued an official response regarding the request.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently said he received assurances from US authorities that all qualified teams would be able to participate in the tournament.

Mixed signals from Tehran leadership

Iran’s position on participation in matches hosted in the United States has varied among officials.

Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali previously said participation could be affected by the broader conflict, while members of the national team have indicated their intention to compete.

The current proposal to move matches to Mexico reflects an effort to address security concerns while maintaining participation in the tournament.

With the June 11 kickoff approaching, FIFA is expected to assess any formal request and determine whether adjustments to match locations are feasible under tournament regulations.