Iran intends to take part in this summer’s FIFA World Cup but will not play matches in the United States, according to football federation president Mehdi Taj, as the US and Israel’s military campaign against Iran enters its fourth week.
The 2026 tournament is scheduled across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran due to face the All Whites and Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.
However, Taj said, “we will boycott the United States but not the World Cup,” confirming talks with FIFA to move fixtures to Mexico instead.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum signalled openness, noting Mexico maintains diplomatic relations with all countries.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the tournament should “go ahead as scheduled,” despite the request. US President Donald Trump had earlier said Iran would be “welcome,” but later warned the team should not travel “for their own life and safety,” citing security concerns raised by Taj.
