FIFA rejects Iranian request to relocate World Cup matches from United States soil

FIFA rejects Iran's petition to move 2026 World Cup matches from the US. President Sheinbaum confirms venues remain unchanged despite Middle East tensions.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 10:19 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Ysscores

Logistical Constraints Override Political Concerns

During a press conference held in Mexico City on April 11, 2026, President Claudia Sheinbaum informed reporters that FIFA has finalized its match schedule, effectively ending hopes for a venue change. The Iranian federation had formally petitioned to have its fixtures moved to Mexico or Canada to avoid competing on American soil following the February 28 attacks and ongoing regional conflict. However, FIFA officials determined that such a late-stage relocation would require an "enormous logistical effort" that the organization is unwilling to undertake with the tournament set to begin on June 11.

Group G Lineup and Scheduled Venues

Iran is currently slotted into Group G, a competitive bracket that includes Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Under the existing schedule, the Iranian national team is slated to play two matches at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, and one match at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. FIFA’s steadfastness ensures that the team will face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before traveling north to take on Egypt. Despite the diplomatic friction, FIFA has emphasized that all venues have already undergone rigorous security and infrastructure certifications that cannot be replicated elsewhere on short notice.

Infantino Reaffirms Commitment to Participation

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been vocal in his support for Iran’s inclusion, despite the fraught relations between Tehran and Washington. Speaking to Mexican broadcasters recently, Infantino stated that there is "no Plan B, C, or D" for the tournament, only "Plan A," which includes Iran competing as scheduled. He reiterated that FIFA’s mission is to "build bridges" through sport, even as political leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have expressed concerns regarding the "appropriateness" of the team's presence in the U.S. for safety reasons.