Mexico Offers to Host Iran's World Cup Matches as US Safety Row Escalates

Claudia Sheinbaum said her country is willing to host Iran’s group-stage matches during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup if necessary, amid growing uncertainty over the Iranian team’s ability to play games scheduled in the United States due to escalating geopolitical tensions. The statement came as Iranian football authorities opened discussions with FIFA about potentially relocating their matches from U.S. venues following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.

Iran’s participation in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has come under scrutiny after tensions intensified last month following military clashes involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The issue gained further attention after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the safety of Iranian players could be at risk if they traveled to American soil for their scheduled matches.

Speaking at a press conference, Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico would be open to hosting Iran’s fixtures if FIFA decided to adjust the tournament schedule. She noted that Mexico maintains diplomatic relations with countries across the world and would respect whatever logistical decisions the global football body ultimately makes regarding match locations. Mexican authorities indicated they would wait for FIFA’s official determination before making further arrangements.

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Under the current schedule released by FIFA in December 2025, Iran is set to play group-stage matches against New Zealand national football team and Belgium national football team in Los Angeles, followed by a match against the Egypt national football team in Seattle. However, Iranian officials have indicated that traveling to the United States may not be possible if security concerns and logistical obstacles remain unresolved.

Iran’s football federation president Mehdi Taj said the country has begun discussions with FIFA about relocating the matches to Mexico. Taj cited comments from Trump suggesting the United States could not guarantee the safety of the Iranian team, arguing that under such circumstances the squad would not travel to the U.S. for the tournament. Iranian authorities have also raised concerns about visa issuance and logistical support for the team’s delegation.

FIFA has so far maintained that the tournament schedule remains unchanged and said it is continuing regular discussions with participating member associations, including Iran. Officials added that planning for the World Cup is proceeding as scheduled while consultations continue. Iran, which qualified early by topping its Asian qualifying group, is currently expected to establish its tournament base camp in Tucson, Arizona, though the situation remains under review as geopolitical tensions continue to influence preparations for the global sporting event.

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