🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 89 (from laksa094)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa089.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/","crawl_time":1775193903,"first_indexed_time":1773758132,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,frontofficesports!\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/ s443","src_root_hash":"6450843257383364089","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico","meta_descriptions":["Trump has said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team in the U.S., where all of the team's group stage matches are scheduled."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Iran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.\nThe Iranian embassy in Mexico\nposted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation\n, Mehdi Taj. The message says that because\nPresident Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team\n, they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also\nconfirmed the talks\n.\nBut FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled.\n“FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”\nIran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round.\nIran’s\nplace in the tournament has been in limbo\nsince joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.\nLast week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement\nrebuking his message\n: “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.”\nThe U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be\ndifficult to avoid playing in the U.S.\nin later rounds.\nFIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war,\nFIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said\nthe governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The\nIranian federation did not send staff\nto Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month.\nTrump initially\ntold\nPolitico\n“I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he\nhad a meeting with Trump\nwhere the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”\nSports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope”\nafter the attacks\n. The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali,\nsaid on state television last week\n: “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the\nteam’s statement condemning Trump\nseemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament.\nAnother squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team\nasked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff\nin Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico.","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tr?id=434369970473336&ev=PageView&noscript=1)\n\n- Loading stock data...\n\n[Got a tip?](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tips\/)\n\n[Sign In](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\n[Sign Up](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\nFriday, April 3, 2026\n\n[More](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/newsletters\/)\n- [Events](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/events\/)\n- [Video](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/video-library\/)\n- [Games](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/games\/)\n- [Shop](https:\/\/shop.frontofficesports.com\/s\/7c71ca)\n\n[Sign In](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\n[Sign Up](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\n- [Sports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Football](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/football\/)\n  - [Basketball](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/basketball\/)\n  - [Baseball](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/baseball\/)\n  - [Hockey](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/hockey\/)\n  - [Soccer](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/soccer\/)\n  - [Women’s Sports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/womens-sports\/)\n  - [College Sports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/college-sports\/)\n- [More Sports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Golf](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/golf\/)\n  - [Tennis](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/tennis\/)\n  - [Motorsports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/motorsports\/)\n  - [Combat Sports](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/combat-sports\/)\n- [Industries](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Media](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/tuned-in\/)\n  - [Finance](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/asset-class\/)\n  - [Stadiums & Real Estate](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/stadiums-real-estate\/)\n  - [Sports Betting](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/sports-betting\/)\n  - [Law](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/law\/)\n  - [Retail](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/fashion\/)\n- [Franchises](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Asset Class](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/asset-class\/)\n  - [Tuned In](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tag\/tuned-in\/)\n- [Explore](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [About](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/about\/)\n  - [Company News](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/company-news\/)\n  - [Studios](https:\/\/studios.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Submit a Tip](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tips\/)\n  - [Advertise](https:\/\/advertising.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Contact](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/contact-us\/)\n  - [Careers](https:\/\/careers.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Shop](https:\/\/shop.frontofficesports.com\/)\n\n[World Cup](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/world-cup\/)\n\n# Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico\nThe team is scheduled to play all of its group stage matches on U.S. soil this summer.\n\nBy [Margaret Fleming](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/margaret\/ \"Posts by Margaret Fleming\")\n\nMar 17, 2026 \\| 10:35 am\n\nUPDATED Mar 17, 2026 \\| 01:04 pm\n\n![Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino on stage during the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium.](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/USATSI_26637176_168416387_lowres-e1764888789983.jpg?quality=100)\n\nVincent Carchietta-Imagn Images\n\nIran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.\n\nThe Iranian embassy in Mexico [posted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation](https:\/\/x.com\/IraninMexico\/status\/2033682796737073599?s=20), Mehdi Taj. The message says that because [President Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/), they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also [confirmed the talks](https:\/\/x.com\/GranadosCeja\/status\/2033926441411223652?s=20).\n\nBut FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled.\n\n“FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”\n\nIran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round.\n\nIran’s [place in the tournament has been in limbo](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) since joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.\n\nLast week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement [rebuking his message](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/): “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.”\n\nThe U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be [difficult to avoid playing in the U.S.](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) in later rounds.\n\nFIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war, [FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks\/) the governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The [Iranian federation did not send staff](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) to Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month.\n\nTrump initially [told *Politico*](https:\/\/www.politico.com\/news\/2026\/03\/03\/iran-trump-world-cup-00808608) “I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he [had a meeting with Trump](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/) where the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”\n\nSports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope” [after the attacks](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks\/). The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, [said on state television last week](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-sports-minister-under-no-circumstances-can-we-play-in-world-cup\/): “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the [team’s statement condemning Trump](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/) seemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament.\n\nAnother squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team [asked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-women-soccer-australia-war\/) in Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico.\n\nShare\n\n[Tweet](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=Iran+Wants+World+Cup+Games+Moved+to+Mexico%20-&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F&via=FOS)\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F)\n\n[Linkedin](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/sharing\/share-offsite\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F)\n\n[Whatsapp](https:\/\/wa.me\/?text=Iran+Wants+World+Cup+Games+Moved+to+Mexico%20-%20https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F)\n\n[Email](<mailto:?subject=Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico&body=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F>)\n\n[Copy Link Link Copied](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\nShare\n\n[Link Copied](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n\n## Latest Stories\n[![Mar 30, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; NFL insider reporter](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/USATSI_28620865_168422351_lowres-scaled-e1775161564117.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans\/)\n\n9 hours ago\n\n[How Ian Rapoport, Daniel Jeremiah Fit in ESPN’s Plans](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans\/)\n\nESPN has high hopes for two of NFL Network’s biggest stars.\n\n[![The gavel in the Brockton City Council Chambers, which will be used by new City Council President John F. Lally, as seen on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026.](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/USATSI_27937698_168422351_lowres-e1775154021570.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-administration-sues-three-states-prediction-markets\/)\n\n11 hours ago\n\n[Trump Admin Sues 3 States to Block Prediction-Market Regulations](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-administration-sues-three-states-prediction-markets\/)\n\nThe CFTC filed lawsuits against Illinois, Arizona, and Connecticut.\n\n[![](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/USATSI_27736437_168416381_lowres-scaled-e1775154033617.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/brett-yormark-cody-campbell-big-12\/)\n\n11 hours ago\n\n[Brett Yormark and Cody Campbell Fight Over Who Runs Big 12](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/brett-yormark-cody-campbell-big-12\/)\n\n“He is not the dictator of the conference. That’s not his role.”\n***\n\n## What to Read\n[![Mar 30, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; NFL insider reporter](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/USATSI_28620865_168422351_lowres-scaled-e1775161564117.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans\/)\n\nby [Michael McCarthy](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/michael\/ \"Posts by Michael McCarthy\") and [Ryan Glasspiegel](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/ryan-glasspiegel\/ \"Posts by Ryan Glasspiegel\")\n\n[How Ian Rapoport, Daniel Jeremiah Fit in ESPN’s Plans](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans\/)\n\nESPN has high hopes for two of NFL Network’s biggest stars.\n\n[![](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/USATSI_25892333-edited-reduced-scaled.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/the-masters-ticket-resale-crackdown-continues\/)\n\nby [David Rumsey](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/david-rumsey\/ \"Posts by David Rumsey\") and [Daniel Roberts](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/dan-roberts\/ \"Posts by Daniel Roberts\")\n\n[The Masters Ticket Resale Crackdown Continues](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/the-masters-ticket-resale-crackdown-continues\/)\n\nAugusta National has tightened its grip on the secondary market.\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/world-cup-final-tickets\/)\n\nby [Margaret Fleming](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/margaret\/ \"Posts by Margaret Fleming\")\n\n[World Cup Final Tickets Cross \\$10,000 Mark](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/world-cup-final-tickets\/)\n\nFIFA raised prices again for its last World Cup ticket window.\n\n[![Aug 27, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale (24) looks on from the team bench during the first half against the Connecticut Sun at College Park Center.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='682'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20682'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wnba-expansion-draft-primer\/)\n\nby [Annie Costabile](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/annie-costabile\/ \"Posts by Annie Costabile\")\n\n[Will a Star Get Picked in the WNBA Expansion Draft?](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/wnba-expansion-draft-primer\/)\n\nThe Fire and Tempo have just five weeks to assemble their teams.\n\n## Featured Today\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='720'%20height='406'%20viewBox='0%200%20720%20406'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/sonics-nba-merch-expansion\/)\n\nby [Alex Schiffer](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/alex-schiffer\/ \"Posts by Alex Schiffer\")\n\n[‘The Sonics Never Died’: The Long Afterlife of Seattle NBA Merch](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/sonics-nba-merch-expansion\/)\n\nInside “the largest team shop for a team that doesn’t exist.”\n\n[![Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA;UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) dunks the ball against the Michigan State Spartans in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/mens-college-basketball-blueblood-debate\/)\n\nMarch 28, 2026\n\n[March Madness Coaches Debate ‘Blueblood’ in NIL Era](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/mens-college-basketball-blueblood-debate\/)\n\nThe term’s meaning was up for debate at men’s March Madness.\n\n[![Maxime Vachier Lagrave](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='696'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20696'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/grand-chess-tour-esports-world-cup-conflict\/)\n\nMarch 25, 2026\n\n[The Planet’s Best Chess Players Are Having Their LIV Golf Moment](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/grand-chess-tour-esports-world-cup-conflict\/)\n\nChess’s most prestigious tournament is battling a splashy Saudi event.\n\n[![Beau Brune\/LSU](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/college-sports-content-studios-lsu-clemson\/)\n\nMarch 22, 2026\n\n[College Athletic Departments Are Becoming Media Companies](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/college-sports-content-studios-lsu-clemson\/)\n\n“There’s only so many tickets you can sell, but content is infinite.”\n\n[More in World Cup](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/category\/world-cup\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iraq-world-cup-italy-iran\/)\n\nby [Margaret Fleming](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/author\/margaret\/ \"Posts by Margaret Fleming\")\n\n[Iraq Grabs Final World Cup Slot With Italy Out Again](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iraq-world-cup-italy-iran\/)\n\nThis year’s World Cup will be the largest ever with 48 teams.\n\n[![Nov 29, 2022; Doha, Qatar; The starting eleven or Iran pose for a photo before a group stage match against the United States of America during the 2022 World Cup at Al Thumama Stadium.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/washington-rep-supports-iran-playing-world-cup-in-seattle\/)\n\nMarch 19, 2026\n\n[Iran Should Feel Safe Playing in Seattle, Washington Rep. Says](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/washington-rep-supports-iran-playing-world-cup-in-seattle\/)\n\nRep. Rick Larsen called Trump threatening Iran team’s safety “disappointing.”\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-us-world-cup-infantino\/)\n\nMarch 31, 2026\n\n[FIFA’s Infantino: Iran Will Play World Cup In US](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-us-world-cup-infantino\/)\n\nTrump questioned the Iranian team’s “life and safety” at the tournament.\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='683'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20683'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/mlb-opening-day-prices-soar\/)\n\nSponsored\n\n[Baseball Is Back: MLB Opening Day Prices Soar](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/mlb-opening-day-prices-soar\/)\n\nMLB Opening Day ticket prices are at record highs. TickPick data breaks down demand, pricing trends, and where fans are paying the most.\n\n[![Dec 5, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; United States of America President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/dhs-finally-gives-world-cup-cities-625-million-in-security-funding\/)\n\nMarch 18, 2026\n\n[DHS Finally Gives World Cup Cities \\$625M In Security Funding](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/dhs-finally-gives-world-cup-cities-625-million-in-security-funding\/)\n\nThe funding was tied up in a partisan battle over DHS funding.\n\n[![Sep 21, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; General view of Gillette Stadium exterior before the NFL game between the Oakland Raiders and the New England Patriots.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='577'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20577'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/boston-world-cup-foxborough-finally-grants-fifa-license\/)\n\nMarch 17, 2026\n\n[Foxborough Finally Grants FIFA License for World Cup](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/boston-world-cup-foxborough-finally-grants-fifa-license\/)\n\nThe Kraft Group is backing the town’s controversial security bill.\n\n[![Dec 5, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; FIFA President Gianni Infantino and United States of America President Donald Trump arrive on the red carpet ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='575'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20575'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/world-cup-host-cities-still-waiting-for-dhs-funds-trump-approval\/)\n\nMarch 16, 2026\n\n[World Cup Host Cities Still Waiting For DHS Funds After Approval](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/world-cup-host-cities-still-waiting-for-dhs-funds-trump-approval\/)\n\nDHS funds were approved, but stakeholders don’t know when to expect them.\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='567'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20567'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/)\n\nMarch 12, 2026\n\n[Iran Men’s Soccer Team Rebukes Trump Over World Cup Safety Post](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/)\n\nTrump suggested the U.S. couldn’t protect the players at the World Cup.\n\nFront Office Sports covers the influence of sports on business and culture.\n\nFront Office Sports\n\n- [Column 1](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Homepage](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Newsletters](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/newsletters\/)\n  - [Videos](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/video-library\/)\n  - [Events](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/events\/)\n- [Column 2](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Learning](https:\/\/www.fos-learning.com\/)\n  - [Games](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/games\/)\n  - [Shop](https:\/\/shop.frontofficesports.com\/s\/7c71ca)\n\nCompany\n\n- [Column 1](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [About Us](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/about\/)\n  - [Newsroom](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/newsroom\/)\n  - [Advertise](https:\/\/advertising.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Company News](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/company-news\/)\n  - [Press](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/press\/)\n- [Column 2](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments\/)\n  - [Studios](https:\/\/studios.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Careers](https:\/\/careers.frontofficesports.com\/)\n  - [Contact](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/contact-us\/)\n  - [Submit a Tip](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/tips\/)\n***\n\n[Terms of Use](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/terms-of-use\/) [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/privacy-policy\/) [Consent preferences]()\n\n© 2026 Front Office Sports. All Rights Reserved.\n\nPrivacy Manager","attrs_readable_markdown":"Iran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.\n\nThe Iranian embassy in Mexico [posted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation](https:\/\/x.com\/IraninMexico\/status\/2033682796737073599?s=20), Mehdi Taj. The message says that because [President Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/), they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also [confirmed the talks](https:\/\/x.com\/GranadosCeja\/status\/2033926441411223652?s=20).\n\nBut FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled.\n\n“FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”\n\nIran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round.\n\nIran’s [place in the tournament has been in limbo](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) since joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.\n\nLast week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement [rebuking his message](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/): “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.”\n\nThe U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be [difficult to avoid playing in the U.S.](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) in later rounds.\n\nFIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war, [FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks\/) the governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The [Iranian federation did not send staff](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war\/) to Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month.\n\nTrump initially [told *Politico*](https:\/\/www.politico.com\/news\/2026\/03\/03\/iran-trump-world-cup-00808608) “I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he [had a meeting with Trump](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/) where the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”\n\nSports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope” [after the attacks](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks\/). The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, [said on state television last week](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/irans-sports-minister-under-no-circumstances-can-we-play-in-world-cup\/): “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the [team’s statement condemning Trump](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post\/) seemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament.\n\nAnother squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team [asked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff](https:\/\/frontofficesports.com\/iran-women-soccer-australia-war\/) in Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico.","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/
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Meta Title	Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico
Meta Description	Trump has said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team in the U.S., where all of the team's group stage matches are scheduled.
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Boilerpipe Text	Iran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. The Iranian embassy in Mexico posted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation , Mehdi Taj. The message says that because President Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team , they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also confirmed the talks . But FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled. “FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.” Iran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round. Iran’s place in the tournament has been in limbo since joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Last week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement rebuking his message : “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.” The U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be difficult to avoid playing in the U.S. in later rounds. FIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war, FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said the governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The Iranian federation did not send staff to Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month. Trump initially told Politico “I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he had a meeting with Trump where the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.” Sports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope” after the attacks . The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, said on state television last week : “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the team’s statement condemning Trump seemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament. Another squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team asked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff in Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico.
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[Got a tip?](https://frontofficesports.com/tips/) [Sign In](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) [Sign Up](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) Friday, April 3, 2026 [More](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Newsletters](https://frontofficesports.com/newsletters/) - [Events](https://frontofficesports.com/events/) - [Video](https://frontofficesports.com/video-library/) - [Games](https://frontofficesports.com/games/) - [Shop](https://shop.frontofficesports.com/s/7c71ca) [Sign In](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) [Sign Up](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Football](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/football/) - [Basketball](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/basketball/) - [Baseball](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/baseball/) - [Hockey](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/hockey/) - [Soccer](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/soccer/) - [Women’s Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/womens-sports/) - [College Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/college-sports/) - [More Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Golf](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/golf/) - [Tennis](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/tennis/) - [Motorsports](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/motorsports/) - [Combat Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/combat-sports/) - [Industries](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Media](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/tuned-in/) - [Finance](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/asset-class/) - [Stadiums & Real Estate](https://frontofficesports.com/category/stadiums-real-estate/) - [Sports Betting](https://frontofficesports.com/category/sports-betting/) - [Law](https://frontofficesports.com/category/law/) - [Retail](https://frontofficesports.com/category/fashion/) - [Franchises](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [Asset Class](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/asset-class/) - [Tuned In](https://frontofficesports.com/tag/tuned-in/) - [Explore](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) - [About](https://frontofficesports.com/about/) - [Company News](https://frontofficesports.com/company-news/) - [Studios](https://studios.frontofficesports.com/) - [Submit a Tip](https://frontofficesports.com/tips/) - [Advertise](https://advertising.frontofficesports.com/) - [Contact](https://frontofficesports.com/contact-us/) - [Careers](https://careers.frontofficesports.com/) - [Shop](https://shop.frontofficesports.com/) [World Cup](https://frontofficesports.com/category/world-cup/) # Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico The team is scheduled to play all of its group stage matches on U.S. soil this summer. By [Margaret Fleming](https://frontofficesports.com/author/margaret/ "Posts by Margaret Fleming") Mar 17, 2026 \\| 10:35 am UPDATED Mar 17, 2026 \\| 01:04 pm ![Jul 13, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino on stage during the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium.](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/USATSI_26637176_168416387_lowres-e1764888789983.jpg?quality=100) Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Iran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. The Iranian embassy in Mexico [posted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation](https://x.com/IraninMexico/status/2033682796737073599?s=20), Mehdi Taj. The message says that because [President Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/), they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also [confirmed the talks](https://x.com/GranadosCeja/status/2033926441411223652?s=20). But FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled. “FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.” Iran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round. Iran’s [place in the tournament has been in limbo](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) since joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Last week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement [rebuking his message](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/): “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.” The U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be [difficult to avoid playing in the U.S.](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) in later rounds. FIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war, [FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks/) the governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The [Iranian federation did not send staff](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) to Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month. Trump initially [told Politico](https://www.politico.com/news/2026/03/03/iran-trump-world-cup-00808608) “I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he [had a meeting with Trump](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) where the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.” Sports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope” [after the attacks](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks/). The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, [said on state television last week](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-sports-minister-under-no-circumstances-can-we-play-in-world-cup/): “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the [team’s statement condemning Trump](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) seemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament. Another squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team [asked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-women-soccer-australia-war/) in Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico. Share [Tweet](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Iran+Wants+World+Cup+Games+Moved+to+Mexico%20-&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F&via=FOS) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F) [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F) [Whatsapp](https://wa.me/?text=Iran+Wants+World+Cup+Games+Moved+to+Mexico%20-%20https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F) [Email](<mailto:?subject=Iran Wants World Cup Games Moved to Mexico&body=https%3A%2F%2Ffrontofficesports.com%2Firan-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments%2F>) [Copy Link Link Copied](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) Share [Link Copied](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-wants-world-cup-games-moved-mexico-trump-comments/) ## Latest Stories [![Mar 30, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; NFL insider reporter](https://frontofficesports.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/USATSI_28620865_168422351_lowres-scaled-e1775161564117.jpg?quality=100&w=1024)](https://frontofficesports.com/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans/) 9 hours ago [How Ian Rapoport, Daniel Jeremiah Fit in ESPN’s Plans](https://frontofficesports.com/ian-rapoport-daniel-jeremiah-fit-espn-long-term-plans/) ESPN has high hopes for two of NFL Network’s biggest stars. 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Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='575'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20575'%3E%3C/svg%3E)](https://frontofficesports.com/world-cup-host-cities-still-waiting-for-dhs-funds-trump-approval/) March 16, 2026 [World Cup Host Cities Still Waiting For DHS Funds After Approval](https://frontofficesports.com/world-cup-host-cities-still-waiting-for-dhs-funds-trump-approval/) DHS funds were approved, but stakeholders don’t know when to expect them. [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20width='1024'%20height='567'%20viewBox='0%200%201024%20567'%3E%3C/svg%3E)](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) March 12, 2026 [Iran Men’s Soccer Team Rebukes Trump Over World Cup Safety Post](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) Trump suggested the U.S. couldn’t protect the players at the World Cup. Front Office Sports covers the influence of sports on business and culture. 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Readable Markdown	Iran is trying to move its World Cup matches from the U.S. to fellow host nation Mexico amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. The Iranian embassy in Mexico [posted a statement attributed to the president of the Iranian football federation](https://x.com/IraninMexico/status/2033682796737073599?s=20), Mehdi Taj. The message says that because [President Donald Trump said he cannot ensure the safety of the Iranian team](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/), they will not travel to America, and are currently negotiating with FIFA to move matches to Mexico. Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum also [confirmed the talks](https://x.com/GranadosCeja/status/2033926441411223652?s=20). But FIFA said it is still planning for the tournament to go ahead as scheduled. “FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” a spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.” Iran is scheduled to play three matches in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If Iran and the U.S. both place second in their groups, they would face one another in the knockout round. Iran’s [place in the tournament has been in limbo](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) since joint attacks on the country by the U.S. and Israel began on Feb. 28. Iran’s counterattacks have hit several nations sending teams to the World Cup including Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Last week, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that the Iranian team is “welcome” to come to the tournament, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.” The team released a statement [rebuking his message](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/): “Certainly, no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that could be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.” The U.S. is hosting the vast majority of the 104 matches in FIFA’s expanded World Cup. Canada and Mexico will each stage just 13 matches in the tournament. Only two teams are scheduled to play all three group stage matches in Mexico: the host nation and Korea. Even if Iran moved its group stage matches to Mexico, it would be [difficult to avoid playing in the U.S.](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) in later rounds. FIFA has maintained that it wants Iran in the tournament. On the first day of the war, [FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks/) the governing body’s “focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.” The [Iranian federation did not send staff](https://frontofficesports.com/trump-iran-world-cup-soccer-war/) to Atlanta for FIFA preparation meetings earlier this month. Trump initially [told Politico](https://www.politico.com/news/2026/03/03/iran-trump-world-cup-00808608) “I really don’t care” if Iran plays or not. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted last week that he [had a meeting with Trump](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) where the U.S. president “reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.” Sports leaders in Iran have issued mixed messaging since the war began. Taj, the federation president, initially said that Iran “cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope” [after the attacks](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-world-cup-future-unclear-after-attacks/). The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, [said on state television last week](https://frontofficesports.com/irans-sports-minister-under-no-circumstances-can-we-play-in-world-cup/): “Considering that this corrupt regime ⁠has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” But the [team’s statement condemning Trump](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-mens-soccer-team-rebukes-trump-over-world-cup-safety-post/) seemed to walk back the sports minister’s declaration that Iran would be out of the tournament. Another squad impacted by the war in the Middle East is Iraq. The team [asked FIFA to delay its March 31 playoff](https://frontofficesports.com/iran-women-soccer-australia-war/) in Mexico to qualify for one of the tournament’s final spots, as players and staff struggled with travel and visa issues amid the conflict. The president of the country’s soccer federation recently said the team will take a private plane to Mexico.
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