Iran requests relocation of 2026 World Cup matches from the US

The Iranian Football Federation is reportedly negotiating with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup group stage matches, originally scheduled for Los Angeles and Seattle, to Mexico. This follows rising tensions and recent military strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The President of the Iranian federation, Mehdi Taj, indicated that the team would not travel to the U.S. due to safety concerns. These concerns were exacerbated by a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump, who noted that while the Iranian team is welcome, he does not believe it is advisable for them to travel to the U.S. for their own safety. Despite these claims, FIFA has reportedly shown no willingness to move the matches. Furthermore, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) stated that it has received no official withdrawal notification from Iran, confirming that the country remains part of the tournament schedule. Iran is drawn in Group 7 alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.