Iran Drops Threat to Boycott 2026 World Cup, Still Refuses to Play Matches on U.S. Soil

Iran Backs Down from World Cup Boycott, Refuses to Play in U.S.

Iran has withdrawn its threat to boycott the FIFA World Cup 2026, but remains firm that it will not play any matches in the United States amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. FFIRI President Mehdi Taj confirmed that Team Melli will continue preparations for the tournament, with a training camp and two friendly matches planned in Turkey.

“We will boycott America, but we will not boycott the World Cup,” Taj told Fars News Agency.

Iran, one of the first teams to qualify, is scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand in U.S. venues. The team’s participation was uncertain following tensions with the United States after the assassination of Islamic Republic leader Ali Khamenei.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously suggested Iran skip its matches in America for safety reasons. Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum offered the possibility of hosting Iran’s games in Mexico, though FIFA maintains that all teams are expected to follow the original schedule.