Iran's participation in the upcoming World Cup hinges on FIFA's response to a request to relocate matches from the United States to Mexico. Minister of Sport Ahmad Donyamali stated the government will decide on the team's involvement only after receiving FIFA's verdict.
The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) cited American military involvement in the region's ongoing conflict as grounds for the venue switch. FFIRI has been in discussions with FIFA regarding this matter.
While FIFA president Gianni Infantino previously indicated Iran's matches would proceed as scheduled, Donyamali confirmed the request remains valid but unanswered. He emphasized that Iran's government will make the final decision on participation, contingent on FIFA's acceptance and the provision of security guarantees.
Iran is scheduled to play Group G matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously commented on the safety of Iranian players in the U.S.
The World Cup is scheduled to take place in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.