Iran is pressing FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches away from the United States, citing security concerns following remarks by US President Donald Trump.
Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s football federation, confirmed that Tehran is in discussions with FIFA about moving the team’s games to Mexico, one of the tournament’s host countries.
The request follows comments by Trump suggesting he could not guarantee the safety of the Iranian national team if it played in the United States. Taj indicated that such statements make travel to the US unacceptable for the team.
The controversy began after Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that Iranian players would be allowed to compete but noted that their presence in the US might not be appropriate due to potential safety risks.
Iran’s sports minister has previously raised the possibility of a World Cup boycott as tensions escalate amid the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with Iran currently scheduled to play group-stage matches in American stadiums.
Under existing plans, Iran’s base camp would be in Tucson, Arizona, while the team’s opening match against New Zealand is set to take place at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Football officials in New Zealand, however, believe a relocation is unlikely. New Zealand Football chief Andrew Pragnell told local media that FIFA rarely alters tournament schedules after the draw.
National team coach Darren Bazeley noted that preparations continue unchanged, with his squad training as if the scheduled match against Iran will proceed.
FIFA has yet to issue a public response regarding Iran’s request.
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