FIFA Speaks Out After Refusing to Move Iran’s World Cup Games to Mexico
A week ago, Iranian sports minister Ahmad Donyamali announced Iran would not participate in the 2026 World Cup after surprise airstrikes from the United States and Israel killed the nation’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameini on February 28. “Given that this corrupt government assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali said, per the New York Post . Now, Iran is considering participating in the tournament if FIFA will agree to move Iran’s three group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico.
World Cup games will be hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada. FIFA President Gianni Infantino ultimately rejected Iran’s request to move games to Mexico. “FIFA can’t solve geopolitical conflicts, but we are committed to using the power of football and the FIFA World Cup to build bridges and promote peace as our thoughts are with those who are suffering as a consequence of the ongoing wars,” President Infantino said, per Mirage News .
“FIFA is looking forward to all teams participating at the FIFA World Cup to compete in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect. We have a schedule. We will soon have the 48 competing teams confirmed, and we want the FIFA World Cup to go ahead as scheduled,” Infantino added.
Mayor Rex Richardson announces a FIFA World Cup Fan Zone at the State of the City in Long Beach on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Long Beach, however, was not included in the official list. Photo Credit: Thomas R.
Cordova. What Games Is Iran Scheduled to Play in the United States? Iran is scheduled to play three group-stage games in Group G against Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.