Iran pushes to move FIFA World Cup 2026 matches from USA to Mexico amid West Asia war

Iran is seeking to move its FIFA World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing player safety amid escalating regional tensions. The country’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, confirmed that negotiations with the governing body are underway to adjust the schedule that will help Iran.

Notably, Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand on 16 June and Belgium on 21 June in Los Angeles, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle on 27 June. Now, since the tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada,



and Mexico, the goal is to relocate Iran’s matches. However, with the tournament set to begin in less than four months, a relocation may not be on the cards. Nevertheless, FIFA can consider it to avoid any late-minute drama.

"When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America. We are negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran's World Cup matches in Mexico," Taj said on a social media account linked to the Iranian embassy in Mexico.