US Relocation Required for Irans Participation in World Cup

Iranian Football Federation Requests FIFA Relocation of World Cup Matches

The Iranian Football Federation has requested that the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) relocate its matches from the United States to Mexico due to ongoing tensions between Iran and the US, which is co-hosting the tournament with Canada. According to Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be uncertain unless FIFA agrees to move the fixtures.

Donyamali stated that if the request is accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be certain. The Iranian Football Federation had requested the relocation of its matches within two weeks of the start of the conflict between Iran and Israel on February 28. US President Donald Trump initially said Iran was welcome to come to his country for its matches but later stated that it would not be “appropriate” for them to attend due to concerns for their safety.

FIFA has rejected Iran’s request, stating that all World Cup matches will take place according to the schedule announced last year. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that a relocation is off the cards. Despite this, Donyamali expressed concerns over the security arrangements for Iran’s players and support staff at the World Cup.

The Iranian Football Federation has continued its preparations for the tournament, with the squad set to face New Zealand in their opening game on June 16 in Los Angeles. The final will be played on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Donyamali urged FIFA to provide necessary security guarantees for Iran’s players and support staff at the World Cup.

The situation remains uncertain, with the possibility of Iran participating in the World Cup matches in the US being low unless security arrangements are provided by the host nation.

Source: Al Jazeera