Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup tournament continues to be a conundrum for world soccer body Fifa. The latest twist in the saga is an apparent request from the Iranian soccer body to move its fixtures to Mexico.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump says Iran’s participation may not be appropriate due to security concerns.
“The Iranian National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social post.
Responding to Trump’s statement, the Iranian national team earlier on their social media replied, “The World Cup is a historic and international event, and its governing body is FIFA, not any individual country.”
Fifa said in response: “Fifa is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the Fifa World Cup 2026. Fifa is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced.”
Several sources at Fifa pointed out that moving Iran’s matches would inconvenience other countries and cause commercial problems because tickets have been sold and global broadcast schedules and sponsorship deals agreed.
Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand are Iran’s opponents in Group G. In another complicating factor Iran would meet the USA in the last 32 in Dallas if they finish as runners-up in their respective groups.
Fifa is unlikely to make a final decision on Iran until its congress in Vancouver on 30 April, with its official position remaining that it wants them to take part.
Iraq are the next highest-ranked Asian team not to have qualified so would appear to be in line to step in if they do not come through an interconfederation playoff against Bolivia or Suriname at the end of this month. The United Arab Emirates would be the most likely beneficiaries if Iraq do qualify.
Just 90 days ahead of the FIFA World Cup, U.S. President Donald Trump says Iran’s participation may not be appropriate due to security concerns.
“The Iranian National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social post.
Responding to Trump’s statement, the Iranian national team on their social media replied, “The World Cup is a historic and international event, and its governing body is FIFA, not any individual country.”
The World Cup is scheduled to kick off on 11th June until 19 July 2026 in Mexico City.