IRAN are set to boycott the 2026 World Cup draw after the US reportedly refused to grant visas to members of their delegation.
The draw takes place on December 5 in Washington DC.
Iran are set to boycott the 2026 World Cup drawCredit: AFP
Iran claim members of their delegation were denied visasCredit: Reuters
But has told they will not be in attendance and explained their decision is politically motivated.
A statement read: “We have informed Fifa that the decisions taken have nothing to do with sports, and the members of the Iranian delegation will not participate in the World Cup draw.
“We have told the head of Fifa, Mr [Gianni] Infantino, that it is purely a political position and that Fifa must tell them [US] to desist from this behaviour.”
Iranian sports website Varzesh 3 claimed several members of the delegation were not granted visas, including FA president Mehdi Taj.
There were protests involving Iranian fans and players at the 2022 World Cup.
Members of the squad despite threats of punishment if they did so.
Top Iranian politicians called for the team to be totally replaced by new players who are “willing to sing the national anthem”.
Iran’s state run media also attacked the team – but made no mention of them snubbing the national anthem.
Black Friday sport travel bargains
FORGET the air fryer and step away from the discounted knitwear.
We have some amazing sport travel bargains this Black Friday.
🎯 Save 10% off the chance to see Luke Littler at next year’s Premier League Darts nights – just use the code PLDARTS10 — BOOK HERE
⚽ And get £30 off ticket and hotel packages to Man Utd, Man City and Liverpool home games — BOOK HERE
🏇 We have a range of offers for horse racing fans, including packages to the Cheltenham Festival – and a FREE extra night at the Dubai World Cup — BOOK HERE
🏁 How about 5% off all European Grand Prix races for 2026? Unlock the deals the code FORMULAONE5 — BOOK HERE
🇪🇸 And check out this deal to next year’s Spanish Grand Prix — a 7-night trip including flights, hotel and race tickets — NOW JUST £569pp
*If you click on a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Fifa have confirmed a big change for this year’s draw for the Finals that will see the top four seeds kept seperate, which includes .
The Three Lions should avoid Spain or Argentina before the semi-finals and cannot meet France until the ultimate game in the MetLife Stadium outside New York on July 19.
It means England will be the effective “top seeds” in one quarter of the draw, a reward for standing in fourth place in the Fifa world rankings.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
