Iran proposes relocating World Cup matches to Mexico
Iran’s Ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, has called on FIFA to relocate the Iranian national team’s 2026 World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing the US government’s refusal to cooperate on visas and logistical support.
In a recent interview, Pasandideh clarified that while Iran remains committed to participating in the tournament, the US has failed to provide the necessary administrative and logistical backing for the team. "We emphasize once again that the US is not cooperating regarding visas. We are keen to participate, but they are not providing the required support," he stated, according to IRNA.
The ambassador proposed that FIFA intervene to facilitate Iran's participation by moving their fixtures to Mexico, one of the tournament's three co-hosts alongside Canada and the United States.
"FIFA can intervene to ensure the Iranian national team can compete, but in Mexico," Pasandideh said, noting that while the final decision rests with Iran’s Ministry of Sport and Youth, the alternative would be immediately welcomed. "We have no animosity toward the American people; our issue is with the US government. We have great affection for the Mexican people, and for us, the ideal scenario is to play our matches in Mexico."
He added that if such a proposal is formally tabled, Iran would accept it, though the reaction of other teams in the group would need to be considered.
Under the current schedule, Iran is placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. All of Iran's group-stage matches are currently slated to be held on US soil, specifically in Los Angeles and Seattle. FIFA has yet to issue an official response or condemnation regarding the administrative hurdles mentioned by the Iranian diplomat.