Iran says its negotiating with FIFA to move World Cup matches from US to Mexico

"When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America," Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj said

By Natalia Mittelstadt

Published: March 17, 2026 7:57am

Iran says its negotiating with FIFA to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to Mexico amid the U.S. and Israeli war with Iran.

Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj posted on the Iranian embassy in Mexico's X account on Monday, "When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America. We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran's matches in the World Cup in Mexico."

Taj's statement comes after President Trump said last week that Iran was welcome to participate in the World Cup, but suggested it might not be appropriate for them to play in the U.S. "for their own life and safety," Reuters reported.

FIFA and the organizing committees for matches in Los Angeles and Seattle didn't immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

The World Cup games are set to kick off on June 11 in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with Iran scheduled to play two group matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. Iran is set to play against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand in Group G.