New Zealand Players Prepared to Play Iran World Cup Match Outside US Amid Geopolitical Concerns
New Zealand’s football players have expressed their willingness to play their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Iran outside of the United States, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the fixture due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The match, currently scheduled for June 15 in Los Angeles, faces potential relocation as a result of the US-Israel war on Iran, which began at the end of February.
Iran’s Participation and Potential Boycott
Iran was among the first nations to qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals. However, their participation has been cast into doubt following the recent conflict. The Iranian Football Federation has threatened to boycott any fixtures held on US soil.
All Whites’ Flexibility and Player Perspectives
Despite preparing for the match to proceed as planned in Los Angeles, New Zealand players have indicated they are adaptable and can accommodate a change of venue. Midfielder Ryan Thomas, currently playing in the Netherlands, emphasized Iran’s right to participate in the tournament. “They deserve to be there as qualifiers,” he stated, adding, “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.”
Australia-based winger Kosta Barbarouses echoed this sentiment, suggesting the decision rests with “the people in charge” and doesn’t anticipate a venue change derailing New Zealand’s preparations. “I don’t think it would derail our preparation at all,” he said. “We’ve got a base before our first game, anyway. So, yeah, I don’t see why not.”
Group G Schedule and Potential Venue Alternatives
New Zealand is scheduled to be based in San Diego, California, during the World Cup, which runs from June 11 to July 19, offering convenient access to the Mexican border. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed her country’s willingness to host Iran’s matches, though the final decision rests with FIFA.
FIFA’s Stance and Security Considerations
FIFA has declined to comment specifically on the possibility of relocating Iran’s games but confirmed it is in communication with the Iranian Football Federation and aims to maintain the current match schedule. Iran is similarly slated to play Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle during the group stage.
Barbarouses acknowledged potential security concerns surrounding the New Zealand-Iran match in Los Angeles but expressed confidence in the authorities’ ability to ensure the safety of players and their families, particularly as it marks New Zealand’s first World Cup appearance since 2010.
Group G Composition
Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup consists of Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. The group stage matches are scheduled to take place from June 15 to 26, 2026, at venues including SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Lumen Field in Seattle, and BC Place in Vancouver. The top two teams will advance to the round of 32, with a potential chance for the third-placed team to qualify as well.
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