Iranian football president Mehdi Taj has confirmed this development. He said that security assurance is a big issue. “When US President Donald Trump has said that he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian national team, we will definitely not go to the US. We are in talks with FIFA to hold Iran’s World Cup matches in Mexico,” Taj said in a post shared on ‘X’, the social media account of the Iranian Embassy in Mexico.
These concerns stem from the ongoing conflict in 2026 following US-Israeli air strikes on Iran that began in late February. These attacks have increased regional tensions. Iran’s Sports Minister had earlier indicated the seriousness of the situation and said that the national team might not be able to participate in the tournament as planned.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump had said that Iran would be allowed to participate, but he also understood the seriousness of the matter. He said that the team is welcome, but also said that for their safety, it would not be right for them to play in America.
Iran had easily qualified for the 48-team mega-tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. On March 25, 2025, Iran became the first Asian team to secure its place in the World Cup. According to the current schedule, it has to play two group matches in Los Angeles and one match in Seattle.
However, with the situation worsening day by day, the possibility of Iran suddenly withdrawing from the tournament has increased considerably. If Iran withdraws from the tournament, FIFA may have to take a last-minute replacement decision.
However, the Asian Football Confederation says that no official information has been received yet about Iran’s withdrawal from the tournament. The Iranian Federation has confirmed its intention to participate, although rapidly changing circumstances still create uncertainty regarding their final decision.
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