Sport Politics Country 2026-03-18T10:13:56+00:00

Mexico Ready to Host Iran's Matches at 2026 World Cup

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed her country's readiness to host Iran's national team matches for the 2026 World Cup. Iranian authorities have requested FIFA's help due to visa issues with the U.S.


Mexico Ready to Host Iran's Matches at 2026 World Cup

Mexico, with its already validated infrastructure for the tournament, presents as the ideal lifeline for world football's governing body. Mexico and its strategic role in the World Cup. President Sheinbaum was emphatic in stating that the final decision rests with FIFA, but she reiterated that the country has the political will to facilitate the event. In this scenario, Iranian authorities have formally requested FIFA's intervention to move their Group G matches to Mexican territory, where foreign policy is open to all. According to reports from the Iranian embassy in Mexico, the request aims to prevent the national team from being excluded from the competition due to non-sporting factors. The controversy erupted after the Iranian Football Federation expressed concern over the lack of logistical and diplomatic guarantees from the U.S. government. In an unexpected twist that could reshape the logistics of the 2026 World Cup, Mexico's President, Claudia Sheinbaum, confirmed that her administration is open to hosting Iran's national team matches. "We will see what FIFA establishes and, from there, it will be reported," she pointed out. This move not only represents a logistical challenge but also an opportunity for Mexico to strengthen its position as the primary host, capturing greater economic revenue and international media attention during the 2026 World Cup group stage. This possibility opens the door for Mexico to increase its prominence in the world championship. The visa conflict: Why Iran might not play in the U.S. This possibility arises due to the severe complications the Asian team faces in entering the United States, due to political tensions and visa issuance problems. During her morning press conference, the head of state described the proposal as "feasible" and revealed that ongoing talks are already underway with FIFA's top leadership. "Mexico has relations with all countries in the world. Yes, it is feasible."