Iran’s government has stated it will only confirm the national football team’s participation in the upcoming World Cup once Fifa responds to its request to relocate matches from the United States to Mexico.
This was confirmed by the country’s Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donyamali.
The Iranian football federation (FFIRI) has been actively lobbying for the team’s three group-stage matches to be moved, citing American military involvement alongside Israel in an ongoing war in the Middle East.
The sports ministry has also imposed a ban on national and club teams travelling to countries it deems hostile. Last month, FFIRI indicated it was in discussions with Fifa regarding a venue switch.
Despite Fifa president Gianni Infantino’s assertion last week that Iran’s matches would proceed as scheduled, Donyamali confirmed the relocation request remains active.
“Our request to Fifa to relocate Iran’s games from the US to Mexico is still valid, but we have not yet received a response,” Donyamali told Turkish state news agency Anadolu.
“If accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be certain. However, Fifa has not yet responded.”
He added: “As the Minister of Sports, together with the Iranian football federation, we will keep the football team ready for the World Cup. However, the final decision will be made by our government.”
Iran is currently scheduled to play all its Group G fixtures on American soil, facing New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before their final match against Egypt in Seattle.
US president Donald Trump said last month that while Iran’s national team were welcome to play in the U.S., it might not be appropriate for their “life and safety”, before later clarifying that any threat would not originate from the United States.
Donyamali expressed doubts about security guarantees.
“According to Fifa’s relevant regulations, security must be provided in the country concerned,” he stated. “However, the World Cup is taking place soon, and providing guarantees during this period is questionable.”
He concluded: “Under these circumstances, the possibility of Iran participating in the World Cup matches in the US is very low. But, if the relevant security guarantees are provided, our government will make the decision on Iran’s participation in the World Cup.”
Fifa has not yet responded to requests for comment.
The World Cup is set to be co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada, running from 11 June to 19 July.
