FIFA, the world's top football governing body, has officially stated that the 2026 World Cup matches will proceed according to the schedule announced in December 2025. This decision effectively shuts down Iran's hopes of relocating its matches from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israeli, and Iranian forces.
In a formal statement, FIFA noted: "FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026." The organization emphasized its expectation that all teams will compete as per the published match schedule. Iran's participation has been cast in doubt since the outbreak of hostilities on February 28.
Last week, US President Donald Trump commented that Iran was welcome to attend its matches in the US but added, "I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety." In response, Iran's football federation asserted on social media that "no one can exclude Iran's national team from the World Cup."
Mehdi Taj, head of the Iranian Football Federation, stated on Monday: "When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America." He confirmed that negotiations are underway with FIFA to hold Iran's matches in Mexico instead. Iran's Ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, also condemned Washington's "lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and logistical support" for the Iranian delegation.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be the first ever hosted across three countries: the US, Mexico, and Canada. The opening match is scheduled for June 11 between South Africa and Mexico. When asked about potentially hosting Iran's games, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Tuesday that the country is prepared to host first-round matches but will await FIFA's decision.
Iran qualified for the World Cup almost a year ago as the second Asian team after Japan, topping its qualifying group. According to the current schedule, Iran is set to play New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle, though its participation remains uncertain amid the geopolitical tensions.
Source: www.aljazeera.com