TEHRAN 17 March 2026 (The Capital Post)- Iran Football Federation is in negotiations with FIFA to relocate its group‑stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Iran’s football chief, Mehdi Taj, said on social media that discussions are underway about holding the country’s first‑round games in Mexico, a co‑host nation where venues are being prepared for the global tournament.
The nation’s scheduled fixtures, which include matches against opponents such as Belgium national football team and New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles and Seattle, have drawn scrutiny amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Taj said Iran’s participation in matches on US soil has been complicated by comments suggesting player safety cannot be guaranteed, prompting the federation to explore alternatives.
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FIFA has not yet responded publicly to the request, and it remains unclear whether the governing body will approve the venue change. Any decision could have implications for Iran’s participation in what is set to be one of the largest World Cup tournaments in history, hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
With the World Cup scheduled to begin in June, the situation highlights ongoing challenges at the intersection of international sport and geopolitical conflict.-The Capital Post
