New Delhi: Iran’s participation in 2026 FIFA World Cup Uncertainty due to rising tensions in the Middle East. The country’s soccer authorities are now looking to move their matches out of the United States, citing security concerns and political issues, even though the tournament is to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Iran is insisting on shifting the match.
Iran’s football federation is in talks with FIFA to move its matches to Mexico. The head of the federation, Mehdi Taj, clarified his position and said that when (US President Donald Trump) has clearly said that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will definitely not travel to America. He added that we are currently in talks with FIFA to host Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico.Iran is currently scheduled to play in the US, which includes matches against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. However, officials are concerned about security and logistical issues, including visa issues.
FIFA’s response, tensions escalated.
FIFA has confirmed it is in contact with Iran but has yet to agree to any changes. “The IR is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss FIFA World Cup 2026 planning,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA looks forward to all teams competing as per the announced match schedule on December 6, 2025,” he added.Iran’s concerns grew after comments from Donald Trump, who said the team would be welcome but warned them not to travel “for their lives and safety”. Iran hit back, saying “no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup”.With the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel and Iran, the situation is uncertain, and it remains unclear what will happen if Iran ultimately decides not to participate.
