Iranian football association president Mehdi Taj is scheduled to hold crucial talks with FIFA President Gianni Infantino aimed at securing assurances regarding the respectful treatment of Iran's delegation at the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Taj has made it clear that Iran will not participate in the tournament if FIFA cannot guarantee that the country's institutions will be respected on American soil.
Background of the Dispute
The meeting comes after Canada denied Taj entry due to his alleged connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which both the United States and Canada classify as a terrorist entity. This has heightened concerns within the Iranian football community about potential political interference and lack of respect during the World Cup.
Iran's Stance
Iran's Foreign Ministry has voiced strong support for Taj's position, asserting that FIFA bears the responsibility to provide all necessary facilities and conditions for all participating nations, free from political considerations. The ministry emphasized that sports should not be entangled with political disputes.
Preparation Plans
Despite the uncertainty, the Iranian national team is moving forward with preparations. The coaching staff plans to select a 30-man squad this week, followed by a training camp in Turkey. The team intends to arrive in the United States 14 days before their opening match against New Zealand on 15 June.
This development adds a layer of complexity to the already politically charged atmosphere surrounding the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
