Mexico: Iran is negotiating with FIFA to move its FIFA World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico due to security concerns, according to Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj.
Iran are scheduled to play two group-stage games in Los Angeles and one in Seattle, but tensions have escalated following joint air strikes by the U.S. and Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump suggested Iran could participate but indicated concerns about guaranteeing the team’s safety.
“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Taj said, adding that talks are underway to host Iran’s matches in Mexico instead.
Relocating fixtures would present a major logistical challenge for FIFA, as the tournament—co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada—is set to begin on June 11. Iran had qualified by topping their group in Asian qualifying and are drawn alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.
If FIFA rejects the proposal, Iran’s participation could be in doubt, with officials indicating the team may not travel to the U.S. under current conditions. A withdrawal would be unprecedented in the modern era and force FIFA to find a replacement team.
The Asian Football Confederation said it has not received any formal notice of withdrawal, adding that Iran’s federation has so far confirmed its intention to compete in the tournament.
