Overview
- FIFA turned down Iran’s request to move its group games to Mexico, with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum saying the switch would be too complex to stage.
- Iran remains listed in Group G with fixtures set for Los Angeles and Seattle in the United States, and the tournament schedule stays unchanged.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said Iran will play at the World Cup and insisted there is only a plan to proceed as drawn.
- Multiple outlets report FIFA is exploring an emergency mini‑playoff with two European and two Asian teams if Iran withdraws, a scenario that could reopen a path for Italy based on ranking.
- Iran’s federation cited player safety concerns after President Donald Trump’s post about their participation, while Mexico signaled willingness to host, but moving games would upend visas, tickets, and stadium operations on short notice.