Iran 'negotiating' with FIFA over moving World Cup games from US to Mexico

© Ulises Ruiz, AFP
by FRANCE 24
March 17, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Iran seeks to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to Mexico amid Trump administration pressure and security concerns.

AI Summary

Iran's football federation is negotiating with FIFA to relocate the country's World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing security concerns. The move comes after President Trump warned last week that Iran's team should not travel to the tournament "for their own life and safety," effectively signaling U.S. opposition to Iran's participation. The request highlights tensions between the Trump administration and Iran, with the national football team caught in the diplomatic crossfire. FIFA has not yet ruled on the petition, and it remains unclear whether the global governing body will approve moving matches for a competing nation based on a host country's political objections. The situation underscores how geopolitical conflict can intersect with international sports competitions.

What's Being Done

Iran's football federation is negotiating with FIFA to relocate the team's World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico.

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