Iran has confirmed it will not attend the FIFA 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., after U.S. authorities refused visas to several members of its football delegation, including federation president Mehdi Taj.

Officials in Tehran described the move as political and told FIFA the boycott was unavoidable. Although four delegates, among them national coach Amir Ghalenoei, were granted entry, others were barred. The draw, set for December 5, is part of preparations for the tournament co‑hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran qualified earlier this year, securing its seventh World Cup appearance.

The decision underscores decades of strained relations between Washington and Tehran, which have clashed over nuclear policy and regional conflicts, even as their teams have met memorably on the pitch.

janus