Iran’s Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that the country will only decide on its national team’s participation in the World Cup after receiving a response from FIFA regarding the relocation of matches. The Iran Football Federation (FFIRI) has been pushing for the relocation of the team’s three group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico due to concerns over American military involvement and Israel’s role in ongoing regional conflicts.
Donyamali told Turkish state news agency Anadolu that their request remains valid, but no response has been received from FIFA. “If accepted,” Donyamali said, “Iran’s participation will be certain.” However, the final decision rests with Iran’s government. The team is scheduled to play all of its Group G matches in the U.S., raising concerns over player safety.
U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that while Iran’s national team could participate, it might not be appropriate for their “life and safety.” Donyamali added that FIFA regulations require security in the country hosting the games, but providing guarantees during the World Cup period is uncertain. The possibility of Iran participating remains low without these assurances.
FIFA has yet to comment on the matter. The World Cup takes place across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.