"FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the organisation's statement said. FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025."
"In response to Trump's comments, Iran's football team said in a post on social media that no one can exclude Iran's national team from the World Cup. More recently, on Monday, Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said on social media that when Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America."
"We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran's matches in the World Cup in Mexico, Taj said. Iran's Ambassador to Mexico Abolfazl Pasandideh also condemned on Monday Washington's lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and the provisions of logistical support for the Iranian delegation."
FIFA has reaffirmed that all 2026 World Cup matches will follow the schedule announced on December 6, 2025, dismissing Iran's attempt to move its games from the United States to Mexico. This decision comes amid tensions following the outbreak of war on February 28, which prompted concerns about Iran's participation and safety. While US President Trump stated Iran was welcome but expressed doubts about their presence, Iran's football leadership rejected competing in America, citing security concerns and visa issues. Iran's football chief Mehdi Taj announced negotiations with FIFA to relocate matches to Mexico, but FIFA maintains the original schedule. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted across three countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—for the first time in tournament history.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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