New Zealand Ready to Play Iran Outside US in 2026 FIFA World Cup
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New Zealand players say they are willing to play Iran outside the United States if needed, as uncertainty continues over their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to rising geopolitical tensions.
Iran qualified early for the tournament, but its participation has come into question following the recent US-Israel conflict. Iran’s soccer federation has threatened to boycott matches held on US soil.
Iran is currently scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in the United States, including the June 15 opener against New Zealand in Los Angeles. However, New Zealand players say they are prepared for a possible venue change.
Midfielder Ryan Thomas said Iran deserves its place in the tournament and that New Zealand would adapt if the match is moved.
“If we’ve got to play them in Mexico or Canada, then yeah, we play them there. It’s not really a big deal for me,” Thomas said.
Winger Kosta Barbarouses said the team would leave the decision to organizers but does not believe a change would affect their preparation.
“I don’t think it would derail our preparation at all,” Barbarouses said. “We’ve got a base before our first game, anyway. So, yeah, I don’t see why not.”
Barbarouses acknowledged there may be security concerns about playing in Los Angeles but said he trusts authorities to ensure safety for players and their families.
The tournament marks New Zealand’s first World Cup appearance since 2010. New Zealand will be based in San Diego during the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19.
The city is located close to the Mexican border, making a potential venue switch more manageable. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has already said her country would be open to hosting Iran’s matches.
However, FIFA has not commented on the possibility of moving Iran’s matches but confirmed it is in contact with Iran’s soccer federation and expects teams to follow the current schedule.
In addition to New Zealand, Iran is scheduled to face Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle during the group stage.
