Iran boycotts FIFA World Cup draw in Washington over visa spat with Trump – POLITICO

Iranian Football Federation officials will not attend next Friday’s World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. after accusing the U.S. of refusing to grant visas to several members of its delegation.

“We have informed FIFA that the decisions taken have nothing to do with sports, and the members of the Iranian delegation will not participate in the World Cup draw,” the federation’s spokesperson told state television, according to a report by Qatar-based Al Jazeera.

Iranian officials are now seeking help from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who has cozied up to U.S. President Donald Trump in a bid to ensure the 2026 Men’s World Cup in North America goes smoothly.