Iran's World Cup opponents are "difficult" to demand 'go to Mexico'... New Zealand "I've already bought tens of thousands of tickets, but what about accommodation?"

*This content was translated by AI.

Opponents are also reluctant to Iran's request that the 2026 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup group stage be held in Mexico instead of the United States.

FIFA announced in an official statement on the 18th, "We are constantly communicating with all participating countries' associations, including Iran, to prepare for the tournament," adding, "We expect all countries to play the game normally according to the official schedule confirmed on December 6, 2025." This clearly nailed the fact that there are no plans to move Iran's game venue to a country other than the United States.

As armed conflict between the U.S., Israel and Iran broke out on the 28th of last month, the Iranian national team's entry into the U.S. and safety issues have been turned on.

On top of that, U.S. President Donald Trump's remarks on social media (SNS) on the 12th became a catalyst. President Trump said, "We welcome the participation of the Iranian national team," but added, "It is questionable whether it is appropriate to stay in the United States considering their lives and safety."

In 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup, which opens in June, Iran, which belongs to Group G, will play all games in the United States. After playing the first and second group games against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles (LA), the U.S., they will move to Seattle to play the third game against Egypt.

Feeling anxious, however, Iran asked FIFA to change the venue of the entire match in the U.S. to Mexico.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed a positive stance, saying, "If FIFA agrees, we will accept it." However, other countries in Group G, such as Iran, expressed opposition.

Andrew Fragnell, secretary-general of the New Zealand Football Association, drew the line, saying, "Tens of thousands of tickets have already been sold and fans' flight and lodging reservations have been completed, so it is impossible to physically change the venue." Moreover, it is a huge burden for FIFA to overturn the overall schedule of the tournament with the opening of the World Cup less than three months away.

In the end, Iran's demands were not accepted without crossing realistic barriers. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on his SNS last week that he had received a confirmation from President Trump that he welcomed Iran's safe participation in the tournament.

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*This content was translated by AI.