Iran’s soccer chief Mehdi Taj stated on March 19, 2026, that the national team will continue World Cup preparations but refuse to play matches in the United States due to safety concerns raised by President Trump during the US-Israel-Iran war.
FIFA Stance and Relocation Bid
FIFA rejected Iran’s request to move its three group stage games (vs New Zealand, Belgium, Egypt) from Los Angeles/Seattle to Mexico, insisting on the December 2025 schedule across US-Canada-Mexico. Iran cited Trump’s warning about player safety as justification.
Escalating Diplomatic Strain
Iran qualified as Asia’s first automatic entrant on March 25, 2025, but post-February airstrikes killing leadership, participation hangs uncertain. Tehran negotiates alternatives while asserting “no one can keep Iran’s team from World Cup.”
Broader Implications
Trump welcomed the team but flagged risks; FIFA maintains dialogue. Iran’s sports minister previously called participation “not feasible,” potentially forcing withdrawal from the expanded 48-team tournament starting June 11.
