FIFA has initially rejected the idea of moving Iran’s 2026 World Cup matches to Mexico instead of the United States.
Iran is currently embroiled in a major conflict with the United States and Israel, and President Donald Trump has urged the Iranian national team to withdraw.
Although Iran was initially inclined not to participate, Trump’s statements have strengthened their resolve to compete.
The Iranian Minister of Sport had revealed that there was communication with FIFA regarding his country’s participation in the World Cup by moving their matches to Mexico.
According to Radio Monte Carlo, FIFA wants the matches to be played as scheduled in the draw last December, in terms of dates and venues.
The source quoted a FIFA spokesperson as saying, “We are in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss plans for the 2026 World Cup.”
It is worth noting that the President of Mexico confirmed her country’s readiness to host Iran’s matches, saying, “Mexico maintains good relations with all countries, so we will wait for FIFA’s decision, and we will provide more information based on that.”
