Overview
- Iran’s federation said its delegation will skip the Dec. 5 draw at the Kennedy Center after the U.S. approved only four visas, according to Iranian media.
- Reported denials include FFIRI president Mehdi Taj, a senior AFC vice president and member of FIFA committees with World Cup oversight.
- FFIRI said it alerted FIFA leadership and was told the matter would be pursued “seriously,” though the draw is still scheduled to proceed.
- The boycott covers only the ceremony and does not affect Iran’s qualification for the 48-team tournament hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
- A June U.S. travel proclamation lists Iran but includes athlete-related exemptions, leaving unclear whether the draw is covered and highlighting access concerns for fans, including those from Haiti.