Iran Reverses World Cup Boycott Threat but Insists It Won’t Play Games in the United States

Iran Withdraws World Cup Boycott Threat but Refuses to Play in the US

Iran has officially withdrawn its threat to boycott the FIFA World Cup 2026, while maintaining its demand not to play matches on U.S. soil amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI), confirmed that Team Melli will continue preparations for the tournament, even if they must avoid traveling to the United States.

Iran was one of the first teams to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Concerns about the team’s participation arose after escalating tensions with the U.S. in late February. Taj welcomed the Iranian women’s team back from Australia and said the men’s team will hold a training camp in Turkey, where they will also play two friendly matches.

“The national team is holding a training camp in Turkey, and we will also play two friendly matches there. We will boycott America, but we will not boycott the World Cup,” Taj told Fars News Agency on Wednesday.

The announcement follows earlier statements by Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, suggesting the men’s team might withdraw from the tournament following the assassination of Islamic Republic leader Ali Khamenei.

Request for Venue Change

Iran’s insistence on avoiding U.S. venues comes amid heightened tensions, with former U.S. President Donald Trump previously suggesting the team skip matches in America for safety reasons. Taj cited these statements in requesting a change of venue for Iran’s matches.

Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said on March 17 that Iran is welcome to play its games in Mexico, though the final decision rests with FIFA. Iran is currently scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand in U.S. venues. FIFA has stated that it is in contact with the FFIRI but expects all teams to adhere to the original schedule.