Overview
- Federation chief Mehdi Taj said Iran will compete at the 2026 World Cup but will not set foot in the United States and is seeking to shift its group matches to Mexico.
- Iran’s embassy in Mexico argued the move is needed due to U.S. non-cooperation on visas and logistics and formally asked FIFA to relocate the fixtures.
- Mexico signaled openness to host the matches, with President Claudia Sheinbaum calling the idea feasible while noting any decision rests with FIFA.
- FIFA stated it remains in regular contact with participating federations and expects teams to play according to the match calendar announced on December 6, 2025, indicating no approved venue change.
- The Asian Football Confederation said it has received no formal withdrawal from Iran, whose group games are slated for Inglewood on June 15 and 21 and Seattle on June 26, a shift that would entail major ticketing and broadcast adjustments.