Mexico could host Iran’s matches in the 2026 World Cup
Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has confirmed that the country is ready to host matches of the Iranian national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This possibility arises due to the difficulties the Asian team faces in playing their matches in the United States. During a press conference, the president described the possibility as “feasible”, indicating that there are already conversations with FIFA to evaluate a possible change of venue.The proposal comes after Iranian sports authorities began efforts to move their group’s matches to Mexican territory, due to problems related to visa issuance and logistical conditions in the United States. According to diplomatic reports, Iran has requested FIFA’s intervention to ensure its participation in the tournament, proposing Mexico as a viable alternative. This situation arises in a context of geopolitical tensions, following the statements of former US President Donald Trump, who stated that the Iranian selection is welcome, although he suggested that it not compete in his country for security reasons. From Iran, the authorities have expressed their concern about the conditions for playing on US territory, pointing out administrative restrictions and the context of conflict in the Middle East. The Iranian selection is in Group G along with Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, with matches originally scheduled in US cities like Inglewood and Seattle. Mexico, which will be one of the venues for the World Cup along with the United States and Canada, could take on part of those commitments if an agreement is reached between the parties involved. The final decision will depend on FIFA, which must evaluate the logistical, sporting, and political aspects before confirming any modification to the venue of the matches.“They are looking at it with FIFA. Yes, it is feasible. It is being analyzed and in due course it will be reported,” Sheinbaum said.
Claudia Sheinbaum
