FIFA & Mehdi Taj

FIFA: FIFA, the world governing body for football, is in contact with the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) regarding the venue switch request and is responsible for ensuring the safety of all participants at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Mehdi Taj: Mehdi Taj, the president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), is the key figure advocating for Iran's boycott of playing in the United States and negotiating with FIFA to move their matches to Mexico.

FIFA: FIFA is in discussions with Iran regarding the relocation of its World Cup matches. A potential withdrawal by Iran would leave FIFA with the urgent task of finding a replacement team.

Mehdi Taj: Mehdi Taj, the president of Iran's football federation, is leading the discussions with FIFA to move Iran's World Cup matches to Mexico.

FIFA: FIFA is facing complaints from Egypt and Iran regarding the scheduling of a World Cup match in United States — Seattle during LGBTQ+ Pride events, creating a dilemma for the organization regarding cultural sensitivities and its stance on human rights.

Mehdi Taj: Mehdi Taj, president of Iran's Football Federation, publicly criticized FIFA's decision and stated Iran would raise the issue at a FIFA Council meeting.

Mehdi Taj: Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), questioned sending the national team to the World Cup after recent attacks.