Overview
- Federation president Mehdi Taj says Iran will play the World Cup but will “boycott the United States,” seeking to move three group matches to Mexico.
- FIFA and Gianni Infantino reiterate the tournament will go ahead as published and have appeared to rule out relocating Iran’s games.
- Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum signals readiness to host Iran’s fixtures if FIFA authorizes a change.
- Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle, with bracket scenarios that could still send Iran to a knockout match in Texas against the United States.
- Iran continues preparations with a Türkiye camp and friendlies against Nigeria and Costa Rica, while no withdrawal has been filed and any late venue change would face significant visa and logistics hurdles.