Overview
- Federation president Mehdi Taj said Iran will prepare for the tournament and will not travel to the United States, citing plans for a training camp in Turkey and friendlies against Nigeria on March 27 and Costa Rica on March 31.
- Iran has opened talks with FIFA to relocate its three group-stage games from Los Angeles and Seattle to Mexico, and President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico is willing to host if FIFA approves.
- FIFA reiterated it expects all teams to play as per the Dec. 6, 2025 schedule, with Gianni Infantino saying the World Cup should proceed as scheduled, and no formal relocation or withdrawal has been received.
- Iran’s position follows President Donald Trump’s warning that it might not be appropriate for the team’s life and safety to travel to the United States, a statement Tehran cites in seeking a venue change.
- Even if group matches moved, knockout pairings could still place Iran in U.S. venues, including a possible Round of 32 game in Arlington on July 3, and late-stage venue changes would face significant logistical hurdles.