Iran Boycotts 2026 World Cup Draw After Visa Denials by U.S.
URGENT UPDATE: Iran will boycott the 2026 World Cup draw set for December 5 in Washington, D.C., following the U.S. government’s denial of visas to its delegation. This significant decision comes as tensions heighten between the two nations over visa issues that extend beyond sports, according to reports from the state-run IRNA news agency.
The spokesperson for the Iranian soccer federation, Amir-Mahdi Alavi, confirmed the news, emphasizing that the federation’s attempts to resolve the visa situation with FIFA have thus far been unproductive. Iran’s absence from the draw could impact its preparation for the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Officials have expressed frustration over the ongoing visa obstacles, which they believe are politically motivated. Alavi stated, “We hope FIFA can assist us in addressing this issue,” highlighting the urgency of the situation as the draw approaches.
No immediate response has been issued from the White House regarding the Iranian delegation’s visa issues. The current U.S. travel restrictions, imposed under the Trump administration in June, affect citizens from twelve countries, including Iran. Despite a promise of exemptions for athletes and support staff participating in major sporting events, it remains unclear if these exemptions apply to the upcoming World Cup draw.
Leading the Iranian delegation would have been Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian soccer federation and a prominent figure in Asian soccer. Taj’s absence could have wider implications for Iran’s representation in international football, as he also serves on key FIFA committees overseeing World Cup events.
The decision to boycott raises significant questions about the relationship between sports and politics, emphasizing the emotional stakes involved for players and fans alike. Iran’s participation in the World Cup is not just a sporting event but a source of national pride and unity.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on FIFA and the U.S. government to see if a resolution can be found before the draw. Fans and stakeholders are eager to see how this unfolding narrative will impact the tournament and the broader landscape of international sports relations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, with implications that resonate far beyond the soccer field.
