Overview
- President Donald Trump advised Iran’s national team to skip the 2026 tournament for its own safety, even as he later touted the event as secure.
- Iran’s federation rejected the warning, asserting that decisions rest with FIFA and criticizing any host unable to guarantee team security.
- Sport minister Ahmad Donjamali, who had questioned participation, now says Iran is consulting FIFA on relocating its three group matches to Mexico.
- Iran’s games are currently scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle, and media note that moving them would pose major logistical and ticketing challenges.
- FIFA has issued no public decision, and reports highlight potential fines and replacement discretion under competition rules if Iran withdraws.