Iran national football team’s football federation has announced that the country will boycott the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled in Washington, DC, after the United States refused visas to several members of the Iranian delegation.
According to the federation, only four members of the designated delegation — including the head coach and a few officials — were granted visas, while visa requests for top figures including the federation president were denied.
“We have informed FIFA that the decisions taken have nothing to do with sports and that the members of the Iranian delegation will not participate in the World Cup draw,” said the federation’s spokesperson.
The boycott underscores Tehran’s frustration with what it calls discriminatory visa restrictions.
The decision also raises fresh pressure on FIFA to respond — especially given the draw’s role in setting matchups for a tournament that will be co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
As it stands, Iran remains qualified for the World Cup.
AFP
