FIFA refuses to relocate Iran’s 2026 World Cup matches

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Friday that FIFA had refused to relocate Iran’s 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, despite military tensions in the Middle East.

The decision came following a request by Iran to avoid playing its three group stage matches on US soil, following the US-Israeli attack on 28 February.

Schinbaum confirmed at a press conference that FIFA was sticking to holding the matches at their pre-determined venues, explaining that any change would have posed significant logistical challenges.

FIFA had previously expressed reservations about the Iranian request, which involved moving its matches against Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt during the tournament scheduled for 11 June to 19 July.

In the same context, FIFA President Gianni Infantino pushed to ensure Iran’s participation, despite the ongoing political tension between Tehran and Washington.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump commented on the matter, saying:

We welcome the Iranian team’s participation in the World Cup, but I do not think it is appropriate for them to be there, for the sake of their lives and safetyز

Featured image via the Canary