FIFA WC 2026: Iran Seeking India-Pak Style Format?

Geopolitical tensions are again breaching the sports bubble as tensions between the US and Iran grow months out from the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Iran made its intentions clear about how it doesn’t want to travel to the US but still wants to participate in the esteemed tournament. After recent US-Israel strikes and rising tensions, Iran’s football federation has formally asked FIFA to shift its 2026 World Cup group matches to Mexico.

The team is currently scheduled to play in Los Angeles and Seattle, but officials say security fears have made that “not possible.” Even US President Donald Trump admitted it may not be “appropriate” for Iran to play there, while in the same vein, saying that the players are allowed to travel to the country.

Iran is now asking for only their group matches to be shifted to a neutral venue, which may sound familiar to Indian cricket fans.

For years, India and Pakistan have avoided playing on each other’s soil, forcing tournaments into hybrid models. The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy saw India play in Dubai while Pakistan was the official host. Meanwhile, Pakistan had all its matches in Sri Lanka at this year’s T20 World Cup.

Iran is now pushing FIFA towards the same model. This will keep the team in the tournament without letting them fear for their security.

FIFA hasn’t responded to the request so far, but an answer is awaited soon, as the World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11.