Iran Will Not Boycott World Cup Despite US Tensions, Says FA Chief

• Iran national football team plan to compete at the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite political tensions.
• Federation president Mehdi Taj said Iran will “boycott the United States, but not the World Cup.”
• Talks are ongoing with FIFA over potentially moving matches to Mexico.

Iran will not withdraw from the World Cup despite ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, according to the country’s football federation president Mehdi Taj.

“Iran will be preparing for the World Cup. We will boycott the United States, but we will not boycott the World Cup,” Taj said, in comments reported by Fars news agency.

The 2026 tournament is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, with Iran currently scheduled to play all three group matches on U.S. soil.

However, Taj confirmed that discussions are ongoing with FIFA regarding a potential relocation of those fixtures.

“We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico,” a statement attributed to Taj said.

The situation follows recent conflict involving U.S. and Israeli air strikes on Iran, raising concerns over security and participation.

FIFA said it remains in contact with all participating nations and is planning for the tournament to proceed as scheduled.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino addressed the issue, stating that football’s governing body aims to promote unity despite global tensions.

“FIFA can’t solve geopolitical conflicts, but we are committed to using the power of football and the FIFA World Cup to build bridges and promote peace,” Infantino said.

Even if Iran’s group matches were moved, logistical challenges remain, particularly for potential knockout ties that could still take place in the United States.

U.S. President Donald Trump recently suggested it may not be appropriate for Iran to participate due to safety concerns.

Meanwhile, Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum said the country would be open to hosting matches if requested by FIFA.

Iran are continuing preparations for the tournament and are planning friendly matches against Nigeria national football team and Costa Rica national football team later this month as they build towards the competition.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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