Iran Seeks to Move World Cup Matches

Iran is negotiating with FIFA to move its World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico due to safety concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to multiple reports.

The Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj stated that Iran will not travel to America if security cannot be ensured, as reported by HuffPost. The move comes after joint air strikes by the U.S. and Israel targeted Iran, raising safety concerns for the Iranian team. Trump suggested that it might not be appropriate for Iran to play in the U.S. "for their own life and safety".

According to AP News, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has stated that as of now, Iran intends to participate in the World Cup. AFC General Secretary Windsor John emphasized that it is ultimately up to the Iranian federation to decide on participation. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stressed that FIFA must address the safety concerns raised by Trump's comments.

The prospect of shifting Iran’s fixtures to Mexico would mark a significant logistical challenge for the tournament, though relocating matches for security or geopolitical reasons is not unprecedented. In September last year, Scotland played Belarus in Hungary due to UEFA rulings over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Iranian sports minister has previously stated that it is not possible for the team to participate under current circumstances.

FIFA has not yet responded to requests for comment on the potential relocation. Iran is scheduled to play against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G. Should FIFA reject a switch of venue to Mexico, it seems unlikely that Iran would travel to the U.S. and take part in the tournament while at war with one of the co-hosts.