A week after Iran signalled it may boycott the men’s World Cup, FIFA has rejected the team’s request to move its group stage matches from the U.S. to Mexico.
The U.S, Canada, and Mexico are co-hosting the tournament, which begins in June.
Here’s what to know.
What happened
After the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran last month, the Iranian men’s team’s participation at the upcoming World Cup has been in limbo.
Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump posted to Truth Social saying the team would be welcome but that it may not be “appropriate… for their own life and safety.”
Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj said in a post to X: “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.”
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Mexico appeared open to hosting. President Claudia Sheinbaum said at a press conference her country was willing, noting it “maintains diplomatic relations with every country in the world.”
FIFA ended the speculation quickly, with a spokesperson saying: “FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran... FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”
Next steps
Iran is in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, with matches in LA and Seattle.
Iran remains qualified and is still scheduled to compete when the tournament kicks off on 11 June.
If Iran withdraws, FIFA holds sole authority to name a replacement, with Iraq and the UAE the leading candidates.
