FIFA has firmly rejected a request from Iran to relocate its matches at the 2026 World Cup from the United States, underlining its commitment to the existing tournament schedule despite rising geopolitical tensions.
The issue emerged after Iranian football authorities raised concerns about the safety of their national team following escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, indicated that discussions were underway with FIFA about potentially moving the team’s group-stage matches to Mexico, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. ([The Independent][1])
However, FIFA has responded by effectively shutting down the proposal.
In an official statement, the governing body emphasized that it expects all participating nations to compete according to the schedule announced in December 2025. ([Al Jazeera][2]) This position signals a clear unwillingness to alter the structure of a tournament that has been years in the making.
 Background to the dispute
Iran qualified for the expanded 48-team World Cup and was drawn into a group that will see it play matches in major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle. ([SB Nation][3]) But the deteriorating political situation has cast doubt over whether the team will travel to the United States at all.
Tensions escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly questioned whether it was appropriate for Iran to participate in matches held on American soil, citing concerns over the players’ safety. ([The Independent][1]) These remarks, combined with ongoing military conflict, prompted Iranian officials to seek alternative arrangements.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico and other officials suggested that Mexico could serve as a safer host for their matches.
Mexico’s government even indicated it would be open to hosting the games if FIFA approved the switch. ([Reuters][4])
 FIFA’s position
Despite these developments, FIFA has maintained a consistent stance.
The organization stated it is in regular contact with all participating federations, including Iran, but reiterated that the competition will proceed as planned. ([The Independent][1])
Several practical considerations underpin FIFA’s refusal.
Relocating matches at such a late stage less than three months before kickoff would create enormous logistical challenges.
These include ticketing arrangements, stadium preparations, broadcasting rights, and sponsorship agreements, all of which have already been finalized. ([SB Nation][3])
Moreover, altering fixtures for one team could disrupt the entire tournament schedule and potentially affect other participating nations.
FIFA appears keen to avoid setting a precedent that could lead to further demands for changes based on political or security concerns.
 Wider implications
The situation highlights the complex intersection of sport and geopolitics.
The 2026 World Cup is already historic as the first to be jointly hosted by three countries and the first to feature 48 teams.
Any major such as relocating matches for a specific nation would represent an unprecedented disruption.
There is also the possibility that Iran could withdraw from the tournament altogether if its concerns are not addressed.
While no formal withdrawal has been confirmed, Iranian officials have at times suggested that participation may not be possible under current conditions. ([Wikipedia][5])
If Iran were to pull out, FIFA would face the challenge of selecting a replacement team at short notice, something that has not happened at a World Cup since 1950. ([The Guardian][6]) Such a scenario would further complicate preparations and could have financial and sporting consequences.
 Reactions and uncertainty
The debate has also drawn reactions from other stakeholders.
Football associations, tournament organizers, and fans are all affected by the uncertainty.
Tens of thousands of tickets have already been sold for matches involving Iran, and supporters have made travel plans based on the current schedule. ([The Washington Post][7])
Meanwhile, the Iranian team itself has emphasized that ensuring player safety is paramount, placing responsibility on FIFA and host nations to provide adequate guarantees. ([Times Union][8])
FIFA’s response to Iran’s request reflects a balancing act between addressing legitimate security concerns and preserving the integrity of a global sporting event.
By refusing to move Iran’s matches, the organization has signaled that the tournament will proceed according to its original plan, despite external pressures.
Whether Iran ultimately participates remains uncertain, but for now, FIFA’s message is clear: the 2026 World Cup schedule will not be changed.
