2026 World Cup: Mexico ready to host Iran matches as FIFA says no

Claudia Sheinbaum has confirmed that Mexico is prepared to host Iran’s 2026 World Cup matches if FIFA approves a venue change.

However, the global football body is reportedly opposed to moving matches from the United States.

The Iranian Football Federation (IFF) requested the relocation following joint U.S. air strikes on Iran, citing serious safety concerns for its players.

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Iran, which qualified by winning Group A in the AFC qualifiers, are scheduled to play their group games in California and Seattle.

However, FIFA is reluctant to approve any switch due to logistical challenges, including already sold tickets and the potential disruption to other teams.

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Tensions intensified after Donald Trump suggested Iran’s players should not travel to the United States for the tournament over security concerns.

In response, the IFF insisted that “no one can exclude” the team from the World Cup and even called for the U.S. to be stripped of hosting rights. The federation also confirmed ongoing talks with FIFA over the possibility of staging matches in Mexico.

Despite the standoff, FIFA remains keen for Iran to participate but is unwilling to alter existing hosting arrangements.

The governing body is also wary of setting a precedent, with no modern instance of a team withdrawing from or being removed from a World Cup.

Under FIFA statutes, member associations must adhere to strict political and religious neutrality and are not permitted to withdraw from competitions. Any such move by Iran could result in severe sanctions, including a potential long-term ban.

A final decision on Iran’s participation is yet to be made, with FIFA expected to address the issue at its congress in Vancouver on April 30.