FIFA Rejects Iran’s Request to Move World Cup Matches from US to Mexico

FIFA has rejected Iran’s request to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Iran’s football authorities had requested the switch due to security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. However, FIFA declined the proposal, maintaining that all fixtures will proceed as originally scheduled in the United States.

According to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, FIFA ruled out the possibility of moving the matches, citing the significant logistical challenges such a change would create.

“FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” Sheinbaum said.

Iran had sought to play its group-stage matches in Mexico rather than the United States, where it is scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand during the tournament.

The decision underscores FIFA’s commitment to maintaining the tournament schedule despite geopolitical tensions, with officials pointing to complications involving ticketing, broadcasting, and overall tournament logistics as key reasons for rejecting the request.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and matches across multiple cities.

Despite the ruling, uncertainty remains over Iran’s participation, as officials continue to seek security assurances amid the ongoing crisis.