Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup hangs in the balance as the Iranian government awaits a definitive response from FIFA regarding a formal request to relocate its group-stage matches from the U.S. to Mexico.

The country’s Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donyamali, said Tehran is still awaiting a response from FIFA regarding its formal request to move the fixtures.

“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 told Anadolu Agency.

“If accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be certain. However, FIFA has not yet responded,” he added.

The Iranian government has made it clear that it will only decide on the national team’s participation once FIFA clarifies its position on both match venues and security guarantees.

Push for Venue Switch Amid Rising Tensions

Iran’s football federation (FFIRI) has been pushing to shift its three group-stage matches out of the United States, citing geopolitical tensions and American military involvement alongside Israel in regional conflicts.

FFIRI confirmed last month that discussions with FIFA were ongoing, while Iran’s sports ministry has barred national and club teams from travelling to countries it considers hostile until further notice.

However, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said last week that Iran’s matches would go ahead as scheduled.

Despite the uncertainty, Donyamali stressed that preparations for the tournament are continuing.

“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,” he said.

Security Concerns Take Centre Stage

Donyamali also criticised remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested it might be unsafe for Iran’s national team to participate in the tournament.

“Trump is making very contradictory statements; what he says is very inconsistent. He is making morally and ethically unbalanced statements,” he said.

He emphasised that, under FIFA regulations, host nations must guarantee the safety of all participating teams.

“Security must be provided in the country concerned. However, the World Cup is taking place soon, and providing guarantees during this period is questionable,” he added.

He warned that without credible assurances, Iran’s participation in matches hosted in the United States remains unlikely.

“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,” Donyamali said. (BusinessDay)