Explained: Could Iran’s World Cup games be moved from the U.S. to Mexico?
FIFA says Iran’s 2026 World Cup fixtures remain in the U.S., dismissing Mexico move reports amid visa and political concerns.
Image: GlobalBeat / 2026
Iran World Cup: US denies request to relocate Iran matches to Mexico
James Okafor | GlobalBeat
FIFA confirmed the United States will host Iran’s 2026 World Cup group stage games despite formal requests to move fixtures to Mexico.
US Soccer officials rejected proposals to relocate Iran’s matches over security concerns, sources told The Athletic on Tuesday.
Iran played the United States at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Tensions between the nations have escalated since then over Tehran’s nuclear program and regional activities.
The Iranian Football Federation requested venue changes through Asian Football Confederation channels, according to two federation officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. They cited potential protests and security risks for players and fans.
“FIFA tournaments are awarded to host countries through a democratic vote,” a FIFA spokesperson said. “All matches must be played in the appointed host nation unless extraordinary circumstances prevent it.”
FIFA regulations require all group stage matches to occur within the host country or countries. The 2026 tournament will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
US Soccer Federation CEO JT Batson told reporters that security arrangements for all teams remain under review. “We are working with federal and local authorities to ensure safe environments for every participating nation,” Batson said.
The State Department declined to comment on specific security measures. A department spokesperson said the United States “welcomes all qualifying teams and their supporters.”
Iran qualified for the 2026 World Cup by finishing second in its Asian qualifying group. The team will discover its group opponents at the draw ceremony in December.
Mexican Football Federation president Mikel Arriola confirmed receiving the Iranian request. “We were approached about hosting Iran’s matches but cannot unilaterally accept such proposals,” Arriola said. “FIFA maintains complete authority over match scheduling and venues.”
Background
Iran and the United States have not maintained diplomatic relations since 1980. The two nations have clashed repeatedly over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, sanctions enforcement and regional proxy conflicts.
Iran’s football team faced protests during the 2022 World Cup after players declined to sing the national anthem. Demonstrators used the global television audience to highlight human rights concerns following the death of Mahsa Amini in Iranian custody.
The United States previously hosted Iran at the 1998 World Cup in France. That match, which Iran won 2-1, was promoted as a diplomatic breakthrough but produced no lasting thaw in relations.
What’s Next
Iran will participate in the World Cup draw scheduled for December 15 in New York City. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.