"We will be preparing for the World Cup. We will boycott the United States, but we will not boycott the World Cup. 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."
"FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including [the Islamic Republic of] Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026. FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on Dec. 6, 2025."
"Moving the games would be unprecedented less than three months before the start of the World Cup. Even if Iran's group games were moved, there would still be an issue with subsequent knockout matches. If Iran and the U.S. finish second in their group, for example, the sides would meet at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on July 3."
Iran's football federation president stated the country will compete in the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, but will boycott playing in the United States. This decision follows February air strikes between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The federation is negotiating with FIFA to move Iran's three group matches from U.S. venues to Mexico, citing security concerns after U.S. President Trump stated he cannot guarantee the Iranian team's safety. FIFA confirmed ongoing contact with Iran regarding World Cup planning. However, relocating matches would be unprecedented so close to the tournament, and complications remain regarding potential knockout matches if Iran advances.
Read at ESPN.com
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