WANA (Mar 19) – Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, has called on FIFA to reconsider the venue of Iran’s matches in the upcoming World Cup, citing security concerns, and to relocate them to Mexico.

 

In an interview, Pasandideh said concerns over player safety have become a key issue, as Iran’s national team is currently scheduled to play its matches in the United States. The issue gained attention after Donald Trump wrote on social media that, “for their own safety,” Iranian players should avoid traveling to the United States.

 

Iran’s national team, currently ranked 20th in the FIFA standings, has secured qualification for the upcoming World Cup as Asia’s second representative and is aiming to participate in the tournament for the seventh time.

 

Pasandideh emphasized that without Iran’s participation, the World Cup would no longer symbolize friendship and peace. He urged FIFA to return to its core principles of promoting unity through sport and noted that host countries are obligated under FIFA regulations to ensure the safety of all participating teams.

 

He also welcomed remarks by Claudia Sheinbaum, who recently expressed Mexico’s readiness to host Iran’s matches, and thanked the Mexican government for its support.

 

The ambassador added that the final decision rests with FIFA, which must carefully assess security conditions and hosting requirements. He also pointed to ongoing international tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, expressing hope for de-escalation while reiterating Iran’s opposition to war.

 

Pasandideh said developments will largely depend on decisions by U.S. leadership, but stressed that Iran remains open to solutions that lead to peace, provided responsibilities are acknowledged.