Iran’s participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 remains uncertain as the government awaits a response from FIFA regarding the potential relocation of the national team’s group-stage matches, Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali confirmed.
The Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran has requested that Iran’s three Group G matches be moved from the United States to Mexico, citing concerns over U.S. military activity alongside Israel in recent regional conflicts.
“Our request to FIFA to relocate Iran’s games from the U.S. to Mexico is still valid, but we have not yet received a response,” Donyamali told Turkish news agency Anadolu in a weekend interview.
“If FIFA approves the request, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be certain. Until then, the government will make the final decision. In the meantime, we are keeping the team prepared for the tournament.”
FFIRI confirmed discussions with FIFA began last month. Meanwhile, Iran’s sports ministry has barred national and club teams from travelling to countries deemed hostile until further notice.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino stated last week that Iran would play their matches as scheduled in the United States. However, Donyamali raised security concerns:
“According to FIFA’s regulations, security must be guaranteed in the host country. With the World Cup approaching, providing such assurances is challenging. Under these circumstances, Iran playing in the U.S. remains unlikely, though a government decision could change if guarantees are given.”
Iran’s Group G fixtures are set against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, followed by a final match against Egypt in Seattle.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously stated that Iran’s team would be welcome to play in the U.S., but emphasised potential risks to player safety. He later clarified that any threat would not come from American authorities.
FIFA has not yet responded to requests for comment. The World Cup is scheduled to run from 11 June to 19 July 2026 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
