FIFA, the international governing body of football, has announced that it will not accommodate Iran’s request to move their World Cup 2026 matches from the USA to Mexico. This decision comes in light of Iran's football leader, Mehdi Taj, expressing concerns over the safety of the Iranian national team due to the current military conflict between Iran and the USA. Taj publicly stated via social media platform X that if former President Donald Trump cannot ensure their safety, traveling to the US for the games will not be an option for them.

FIFA's spokesperson addressed the inquiries regarding Iran's situation and confirmed that the organization is in communication with all participating national associations, including that of Iran, to discuss logistical arrangements related to the World Cup. The governing body reaffirmed its hope that all countries will participate according to the scheduled match timetable released on December 6. This reflects FIFA's ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tournament amidst geopolitical tensions.

Iran is placed in the same group as Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand for the World Cup. Their first matches are currently scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle, putting them in a challenging situation considering the ongoing US-Iran relations. As the tournament approaches, the pressure mounts on FIFA to ensure the safety and participation of all teams amid these complex diplomatic relations, highlighting the intersection of sports and international politics in major events like the World Cup.