Football’s world governing body FIFA has rejected a request from Iran to relocate its 2026 World Cup matches away from the United States, citing logistical difficulties, according to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Iran’s Football Federation (FFIRI) had appealed to FIFA last month to move its group-stage fixtures out of the US amid political and security concerns. However, FIFA has ruled that all matches will remain at their originally assigned venues.
Speaking at a press conference in Mexico City, Sheinbaum confirmed that FIFA had made a final decision to keep the fixtures unchanged.
“FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues,” she said, adding that relocating the games would create significant logistical complications.
She further noted that the decision was taken directly by FIFA and reaffirmed that Iran’s matches will be played in the United States as scheduled.
The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, with Iran placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. Their group matches are expected to be held on the US West Coast, including fixtures in Los Angeles and Seattle.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously reiterated that all teams will play according to the official draw and that there is no plan to relocate fixtures based on political concerns.
Iran had raised security concerns regarding playing in the US and had reportedly expressed willingness for Mexico to host its matches instead. However, FIFA’s stance effectively rules out any change in venue.
The Iranian football authorities had earlier suggested uncertainty over participation if security guarantees were not assured, but FIFA has maintained that Iran will take part in the tournament as planned.
The decision comes amid broader political tensions involving Iran and the United States, which had previously led to concerns over travel and safety for the Iranian squad.
FIFA has not issued an additional public statement beyond confirming that the tournament schedule remains unchanged.
