FIFA Rejects Iran’s Request to Relocate World Cup Matches to Mexico

FIFA has officially declined a request from the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) to move its scheduled 2026 World Cup fixtures from the United States to Mexico. The governing body cited insurmountable logistical hurdles as the primary reason for the decision.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the development during a press conference in Mexico City over the weekend, noting that the matches will proceed in the United States as originally planned. Her statement aligns with the firm stance previously established by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” President Sheinbaum stated. “Relocation would make logistics too complicated, and this decision was taken by FIFA.”

The decision follows weeks of speculation and heightened geopolitical tension. President Infantino had previously dismissed the possibility of a venue change, emphasizing that there is “no plan B, C, or D,” and that the tournament will be executed “according to the draw.”

Security Concerns and Diplomatic Friction The request for relocation was sparked by concerns from the FFIRI regarding player safety and security. Last month, FFIRI President Mehdi Taj expressed hesitation about traveling to the U.S. following social media comments from President Donald Trump suggesting that Iranian participation might be inappropriate for “their own life and safety.”

In response to those remarks, Taj stated, “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.”

Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali further suggested that the team’s participation remains uncertain unless FIFA reconsidered the fixture locations. Despite Mexico’s expressed willingness to host the matches, FIFA’s commitment to the original schedule appears final following a meeting between Infantino and Iranian football officials in Türkiye on March 31.

Tournament Schedule Iran, one of the first nations to qualify from the Asian confederation, is seeded in Group G. Their current schedule remains as follows:

• June 15 – 27: Fixtures against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles.

• Group Finale: Fixture against Egypt in Seattle.

FIFA maintains that all host cities are fully prepared to provide the necessary security and infrastructure for all participating nations.