As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws near, Iran has clarified its position amid rising geopolitical tensions. Mehdi Taj, President of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, announced that while the national team will “boycott America,” it has no plans to withdraw from the tournament itself.
Currently, Iran is scheduled to play its Group G matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Los Angeles and Seattle. Taj stated that the federation is negotiating with FIFA to move these fixtures to Mexico over safety concerns for players and staff. He stressed that the team will not travel to the United States unless full security can be guaranteed.
“The national team is currently holding a training camp in Turkey, where we will also play two friendly matches. We will boycott America, but we will not boycott the FIFA World Cup,” Taj told Fars News Agency.
The team remains focused on preparations, conducting high-intensity training in Turkey to stay match-ready. Iranian authorities had previously suggested a possible total withdrawal following the assassination of a senior official, but Taj’s statements indicate a strategic boycott of U.S. venues rather than a forfeit of the competition.
FIFA has not yet approved any venue changes, although Mexican officials have expressed willingness to host the matches if relocation is confirmed.
