Tehran: Iran's Football Federation will boycott the final draw ceremony for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the United States refused to grant visas to several key members of its delegation. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C.

According to Nam News Network, the federation spokesman, Amir Mehdi Alavi, announced the decision yesterday on state-run IRIB TV. The decision was made following necessary inquiries, internal discussions, and consultations with Iran's Ministry of Sports and Youth and Foreign Ministry. Alavi condemned the U.S. actions as non-sporting.

Alavi confirmed that FIFA was informed of the boycott and that its officials, including President Gianni Infantino, have been notified of the visa issue. He noted that FIFA has promised to take the matter seriously.

The Iranian Students News Agency reported that the visa denials impacted several key figures, including federation President Mehdi Taj, preventing them from attending. Meanwhile, four members, including men's national team head coach Amir Ghalenoei, were granted a visa.