Iran national team are in discussions with FIFA regarding the possible relocation of their FIFA World Cup group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico, amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
According to statements released via Iran’s embassy in Mexico, the country’s football authorities are seeking contingency arrangements due to security concerns surrounding their participation in fixtures scheduled on US soil.
Iran are currently set to play group-stage matches against New Zealand national team and Belgium national team in Los Angeles, before facing Egypt national team in Seattle. Their training base for the tournament has been planned in Tucson, Arizona.
However, Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s football federation, indicated that participation in the United States is under serious review. His comments referenced remarks made by Donald Trump, who suggested he could not guarantee the team’s safety.
Taj stated that Iran would be unwilling to travel to the United States under such conditions, confirming that negotiations are ongoing with FIFA to stage their matches in Mexico instead.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, also criticised what he described as a lack of cooperation from US authorities, particularly regarding visa processing and logistical support for the delegation. He reiterated that a formal proposal had been submitted to FIFA to relocate Iran’s fixtures.
FIFA has yet to issue an official response to the situation, which adds further uncertainty to tournament planning.
The controversy intensified following comments from Trump, who stated that while Iran would be “welcome” to participate, concerns over safety should be taken into account. This appeared to contradict earlier assurances reportedly given to FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Iran’s participation would not be hindered.
Iranian officials have firmly rejected any suggestion that their team could be excluded from the tournament, emphasising their right to compete.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, raising broader concerns over security, logistics and the smooth hosting of matches across multiple venues in North America.
