Iran has announced it will boycott the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw after visa issues prevented key officials from attending, 24NewsHD TV reported on Saturday.
Speaking to foreign media, Aamir Mehdi Alavi, spokesperson for the Iranian Football Federation, said that only four officials, including the team’s head coach, were granted US visas, while the federation’s president Mehdi Taj was denied entry.
Alavi described the US decision as a clear violation of sportsmanship principles and confirmed that Iran has informed FIFA of its decision to withdraw from the draw.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw is scheduled for 5 December in Washington.
Iran had already qualified for the tournament in March, securing their place among the 48 teams that will compete in North America.