Iran Seeks FIFA Approval to Shift 2026 World Cup Group Games to Mexico Over Security Fears
Iran's football authorities are actively negotiating with world governing body FIFA to relocate the national team's group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup from the United States to co-host Mexico, according to statements from the Iranian Embassy in Mexico. The request stems from heightened security concerns following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including US and Israeli military actions against Iran that began in late February. Those strikes reportedly resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Iran's supreme leader and other key figures, escalating tensions and raising doubts about the safety of Iranian players and officials traveling to or competing in the US. Mehdi Taj, president of Iran's Football Federation, confirmed the discussions in remarks posted on the Iranian Embassy in Mexico's X (formerly Twitter) account. "When [US President Donald] Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian ...