Iran's Minister of Sports and Youth, Kioumars Hashemi, has categorically denied recent media reports claiming the country was negotiating with FIFA to host its 2026 World Cup matches in Mexico instead of the United States. The rumors suggested Iran sought the change due to political tensions with the U.S.
In a statement reported by Iranian state media on March 16, 2026, Hashemi labeled the reports as "completely false" and stated that no such negotiations have taken place with FIFA. He emphasized that the Iranian football federation operates within the framework of FIFA's regulations.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament draw and final match schedule have not yet been announced. FIFA has not commented on the specific rumors regarding Iran.
Political tensions between Iran and the United States have been high for decades, but there is no verified information suggesting Iran's national team has threatened to withdraw from the tournament or that FIFA is considering relocating its matches.
