FIFA has dismissed Iran’s proposal to shift its 2026 World Cup matches away from the United States amid heightened tensions following recent US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

Iran’s Push for Venue Change

Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, announced that his team is in talks with FIFA to host Iran’s games in co-host Mexico instead. Taj emphasized security concerns, stating on the Iranian embassy in Mexico’s X account: “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.” He added: “We are negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s World Cup matches in Mexico.”

US President Donald Trump commented last week that he does not consider it “appropriate” for Iran to play games in America “for their own life and safety.”

FIFA’s Firm Stance

A FIFA spokesperson confirmed the organization anticipates all teams, including Iran, to follow the match schedule set after the December draw. “FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup 2026,” the spokesperson noted.

While FIFA regulations permit canceling, rescheduling, or relocating matches due to security issues or force majeure, no changes appear imminent.

Match Schedule and Group Details

Iran faces all three group stage matches in the US: against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

A potential clash with the US looms if both teams finish as runners-up in their groups, with that round-of-16 matchup set for Arlington, Texas.

New Zealand’s Perspective

Andrew Pragnell, chief executive of New Zealand Football, expressed doubt over any relocation. Darren Bazeley, head coach of New Zealand’s national team, told reporters: “Right now we’re still continuing as though we’re playing Iran. They’re the team that qualified and we got drawn against them. That’s still the fixture and until we get told otherwise, we’ll continue with that preparation.”

Bazeley added: “Obviously, if things change, then we’ll deal with that, but that would be (people at) a higher level than myself involved in those discussions.”