Iran's football federation is negotiating with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico. Iranian Football President Mehdi Taj cited safety concerns after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran-and after Donald Trump stated he could not guarantee the Iranian team's security in America.
The tournament begins June 11 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Iran was scheduled for two group games in Los Angeles and one in Seattle against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.
FIFA has not commented. The Asian Football Confederation confirmed Iran has not officially withdrawn-and remains listed as a participant.
A formal withdrawal would be unprecedented in the modern World Cup era and trigger urgent replacement protocols.