Due to tensions with the United States, the Iranian national team seemed to be on the verge of not participating in the 2026 World Cup. However, a very unlikely alternative has recently emerged that could give hope to Iranian fans who want to see their team in this great event.
The Iranian federation is already in talks with FIFA to move its matches to Mexico, which could completely change the tournament’s map.
We are negotiating with FIFA for Iran’s World Cup matches to be held in Mexico
Iran seeks alternatives amid uncertainty in the United States
In the midst of the conflict, certain statements have cast doubt on the safety of the Iranian national team if it plays its matches on US soil, to which the president of the Iranian federation, Mehdi Taj, was clear on the matter: “When Trump has clearly stated that he cannot guarantee the safety of the Iranian national team, we will definitely not travel to the United States.”
These words reflect the concern of the Asian team, which has already secured its place in the World Cup on the field, but now faces a logistical and political challenge.
In this scenario, Mexico appears to be a viable solution within the tournament’s shared-hosting scheme.
If the change is made, Mexico would not only play more matches, but also have a greater role in the group stage. However, in the unlikely, but ultimately possible scenario that Iran advances to the next round, these knockout matches would also have to be played on Mexican soil. This would mean taking matches away from the United States, something that would not sit well with Donald Trump, so the alternative remains in the realm of the unlikely.
What matches would Iran play in Mexico?
If the relocation is approved, the three group stage matches originally scheduled in the United States would be moved.
The debut would be against the New Zealand national soccer team, a duel that was initially scheduled to take place in California.
Iran will then face the Belgium national football team, one of the most competitive European teams, in a match that promises to be key in defining positions in the group.
Finally, they would close their participation in the initial phase against the Egypt national football team, in a match that could define their passage to the next round.
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