Iran weighs venue shift for 2026 World Cup matches amid security concerns
NEW DELHI — Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is facing growing uncertainty as the country’s football federation explores moving its scheduled matches in the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns tied to escalating geopolitical tensions.
Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said discussions are underway with FIFA regarding a potential venue change, emphasizing that safety guarantees for the national team remain a key issue.
“When [US President Donald] Trump has said he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Taj said in a statement shared via the Iranian embassy in Mexico’s social media account. “We are negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s World Cup matches in Mexico.”
The concerns come amid heightened tensions following U.S.-Israel airstrikes on Iran in late February, which have significantly escalated the regional security situation. Iran’s sports minister has also warned that the national team’s participation in the tournament could be at risk.
Earlier, President Donald Trump said Iran would be allowed to compete in the tournament but acknowledged the sensitivities involved, suggesting it might not be advisable for the team to play in the United States “for their own life and safety.”
Iran qualified comfortably for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The team secured its place on March 25, 2025, becoming the first Asian nation to qualify.
Under the current schedule, Iran is set to play two group-stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. However, the evolving geopolitical situation has raised the possibility of a last-minute change, including a potential relocation of matches or, in an extreme scenario, withdrawal from the tournament.
Such a move would be unprecedented in the modern history of the World Cup and could force FIFA to consider replacement options on short notice.
For now, the Asian Football Confederation said it has not received any formal communication indicating a withdrawal. It added that Iran’s football federation has reaffirmed its intention to participate, though uncertainty remains as the situation continues to develop. (Source: IANS)
