Iran 'Negotiating' With FIFA To Move World Cup 2026 Matches From US To Mexico

Iran's football federation has opened negotiations with FIFA to relocate its group-stage matches at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The development comes as tensions between Iran and the United States escalate following recent military exchanges in the region.

Iran Seeks Alternative Venue for Matches

Iran's football chief Mehdi Taj said the federation was already in discussions with FIFA about moving its matches.

"When (US President Donald) Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America," Taj said in remarks posted on the Iranian embassy's X account.

"We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran's matches in the World Cup in Mexico."

Iran had originally been scheduled to play its group-stage matches in the United States, including games against New Zealand national football team and Belgium national football team in Los Angeles, followed by a clash with the Egypt national football team in Seattle.

Diplomatic Concerns Raised by Iran

The Iranian government has also raised diplomatic and logistical concerns with tournament organisers.

Abolfazl Pasandideh criticised Washington's handling of the situation and said Iran had faced difficulties even before the tournament began.

He denounced "the US government's lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and the provision of logistical support" for the Iranian delegation ahead of the World Cup.

Pasandideh added that he had also "suggested to FIFA that Iran's matches be moved from the United States to Mexico."

Trump's Remarks Add to Controversy

The situation escalated last week after comments from Donald Trump sparked controversy.

Trump said that while Iran's team would be allowed to participate, travelling to the United States could pose risks.

He said the team would be "welcome" in the United States but should not travel to the tournament "for their own life and safety."

The comments triggered a backlash from Iranian officials, who insisted that the country could not be barred from football's biggest tournament.

War in the Middle East Clouds World Cup Participation

Iran's participation in the World Cup has been overshadowed by the broader conflict that erupted after the United States and Israel launched a major military offensive against the Islamic Republic.

Iran retaliated with waves of missiles and drones targeting Israeli territory as well as American assets across the Middle East, significantly escalating tensions.

As the security situation remains volatile, FIFA has yet to publicly comment on Iran's request to shift its matches to Mexico, one of the three host nations alongside the United States and Canada.

For now, Iran's World Cup schedule remains unchanged, but the negotiations could determine whether its games are ultimately played on American soil or across the border in Mexico.

(With inputs from AFP)

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