World Cup Faces New Challenges with Iran War and Mexico Violence

Conflict and cartel violence add complexity to the 2026 tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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With 100 days until the 2026 World Cup, the Iran war has added a new layer of complexity to the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Officials are grappling with issues like cartel violence in Mexico, scaled-back fan festival plans in the U.S., and criticism over soaring ticket prices. The conflict with Iran has raised uncertainty over whether the Iranian team will even participate.

Why it matters

International politics often overshadow major global sporting events like the World Cup in the early stages. The 2026 tournament looks set to kick off amid a backdrop of political tensions involving the U.S. and participating nations, raising concerns about security, fan experience, and the participation of certain teams.

The details

The World Cup will feature 48 teams, up from 32 in the previous tournament. Iran is set to play two group stage games in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle, but it's uncertain whether the Iranian team will come to the U.S. after recent attacks. Fan festivals, a key part of the World Cup experience, are being scaled back in the U.S. due to lack of federal funding and local resistance. Ticket prices have also drawn criticism, with FIFA offering a limited number of $60 tickets to national federations.

  • The World Cup kicks off on June 11 when Mexico plays South Africa in Mexico City.
  • Foxborough, Massachusetts has set a March 17 deadline to be paid $7.8 million for police and other expenses related to hosting World Cup matches.

The players

Mehdi Taj

Iran's top soccer official who said after the U.S. and Israel attacks that 'we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope'.

Gianni Infantino

The FIFA president who has proclaimed all 104 World Cup matches are sold out, despite some fans receiving emails offering extra ticket sales.

Claudia Sheinbaum

Mexico's president who said there is no risk for fans coming to the World Cup, despite a surge in violence in the state of Jalisco.

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What they’re saying

“What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope.”

— Mehdi Taj, Iran's top soccer official

“I really don't care if Iran participates. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They're running on fumes.”

— Donald Trump (Politico)

What’s next

Officials of the qualified teams are meeting with FIFA staff in Atlanta this week to discuss the issues facing the 2026 World Cup.

The takeaway

The 2026 World Cup faces a complex web of political, security, and logistical challenges that threaten to overshadow the on-field action, raising concerns about the tournament's ability to deliver the inclusive, global celebration that FIFA has promised.