Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain and now hinges on whether FIFA agrees to move its matches out of the United States and into Mexico, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East that began on Feb. 28 and a U.S. travel ban imposed on Iranian citizens in 2025.

The one condition on which Iran will play at World Cup 2026

“Our request to FIFA to move Iran’s matches from the United States to Mexico is still active, but we have not yet received a response,” said Ahmad Donyamali, Iran’s minister of sports, in an interview with Turkish news agency Anadolu.

“If it is accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be guaranteed. However, FIFA has still not responded.”

Iran’s position remains unchanged. Officials say the national team will only participate if FIFA approves a venue change and guarantees safety.

“As minister of sports, together with the Iranian Football Federation, we will keep the national team prepared for the World Cup. However, the final decision will be made by our government,” Donyamali added.

FIFA stands firm on schedule

Iran’s stance contrasts with comments from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who recently ruled out any changes to the tournament schedule or host cities during remarks at the reopening of Estadio Azteca in Mexico.

“There is no plan B, C or D regarding Iran. Matches will take place according to the current schedule,” said the Swiss-Italian FIFA president.

Despite those remarks, Donyamali claims behind-the-scenes discussions between FIFA and the Iranian federation are still ongoing. Iran does not consider Infantino’s public comments to be an official final response to its request.

Trump and Iran exchange statements

U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in via Truth Social two weeks after hostilities began in the Middle East. He said Iran was welcome to compete in the United States during the World Cup, but suggested it would be better for security reasons if the team did not participate.

A day later, Iran’s national team, known as Team Melli, responded on Instagram: “No one can take away our right to play in the World Cup.”

“In these circumstances, the possibility of Iran playing its World Cup matches in the United States is very low,” Donyamali said. “However, if appropriate security guarantees are provided, our government will make the decision.”

He added that the situation remains highly fluid, with conditions changing daily and no clear end in sight to the conflict.

The tensions reportedly began with the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei on Feb. 28, according to the source narrative, and have continued into early April. Trump has also warned of potential “total destruction” if Iran’s leadership does not agree to a ceasefire and allow access to the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s World Cup participation hangs in the balance

Iran’s presence at the tournament now appears increasingly uncertain. All three of its group-stage matches are currently scheduled to be played in the United States.

Iran’s 2026 World Cup group schedule

• Iran vs. New Zealand | June 15 | Los Angeles Stadium
• Iran vs. Belgium | June 21 | Los Angeles Stadium
• Iran vs. Egypt | June 26 | Seattle Stadium

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