Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali announced that his country’s government is holding off on a final World Cup participation decision until FIFA responds to their request for relocating matches away from the United States.
The Iranian Football Federation has been advocating to shift their three group stage games from American venues to Mexico instead. This push stems from Iran’s opposition to U.S. military actions supporting Israel in regional conflicts that have led to ongoing warfare.
Last month, Iranian football officials confirmed they were negotiating with FIFA regarding the venue change. Meanwhile, Iran’s sports ministry has prohibited all national and club teams from traveling to nations deemed hostile until further guidance is issued.
Despite Iran’s efforts, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated last week that the matches would proceed as originally planned.
“Our request to FIFA to relocate Iran’s games from the U.S. to Mexico is still valid, but we have not yet received a response,” Donyamali explained in a weekend interview with Turkey’s Anadolu news agency.
“If accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be certain. However, FIFA has not yet responded.”
“As the Minister of Sports, together with the Iranian football federation, we will keep the football team ready for the World Cup. However, the final decision will be made by our government.”
Iran’s Group G schedule currently places all three matches on U.S. territory, with games against New Zealand and Belgium set for Los Angeles, followed by their final match against Egypt in Seattle.
President Donald Trump commented last month that while Iran’s team would be welcomed to compete in America, concerns existed regarding their “life and safety.”
Trump subsequently clarified that any potential threats would not originate from the United States.
“According to FIFA’s relevant regulations, security must be provided in the country concerned,” Donyamali stated. “However, the World Cup is taking place soon, and providing guarantees during this period is questionable.”
“Under these circumstances, the possibility of Iran participating in the World Cup matches in the U.S. is very low. But, if the relevant security guarantees are provided, our government will make the decision on Iran’s participation in the World Cup.”
FIFA has not yet provided comment on the matter.
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to run from June 11 through July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
