Iran’s football federation is discussing with FIFA the possibility of moving its World Cup group matches from the United States to Mexico. The move comes amid safety concerns after rising tensions in the Middle East.
“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” Iranian football president Mehdi Taj wrote on the X account of the Iranian embassy in Mexico.
Iran’s participation was thrown into doubt after the United States and Israel launched air strikes on the country. U.S. President Donald Trump said last week that while Iran is “welcome” to attend, it may not be safe for the team to play in the U.S.
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Iran is scheduled to play New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, followed by Egypt in Seattle. Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, criticized the U.S. for “lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and logistical support” and said he suggested moving the matches to Mexico.
FIFA has not commented. Venue changes for security reasons are not unusual. In 2022, Scotland played a World Cup qualifier in Austria after UEFA restricted Belarus as a venue.
Iran qualified for a fourth straight World Cup. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said Monday it had not received any formal notice of withdrawal. “At the end of the day, it’s the federation who should decide if they’re playing,” said AFC General Secretary Windsor John.