FIFA has decided that Iran will play its FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in the United States, rejecting a request to move the games to Mexico. The decision confirms that the tournament schedule will remain unchanged.
The Iranian Football Federation had asked FIFA to shift the matches due to security concerns. These concerns were linked to rising tensions and comments made by Donald Trump, which raised questions about the safety of Iranian players in the US. Officials in Iran believed a neutral venue like Mexico would be more suitable.
However, FIFA stated that all arrangements will continue as planned. The organization said the schedule, which was finalized in December 2025, will not be altered. It also ensured that proper security measures would be in place to ensure the safety of all teams and players during the tournament.
Earlier, Iran’s sports authorities had warned that the team might consider skipping the tournament if the request was not accepted. This had raised concerns about a possible boycott, which could have affected the competition.
With FIFA’s final decision, the tournament will go ahead without changes. Teams will compete in their assigned venues across the United States. The announcement brings clarity to the situation and allows preparations for the World Cup to continue as planned.
