Iran refused to participate in the 2026 World Cup draw due to US visa restrictions

The Iranian football delegation declined to participate in the draw for the 2026 World Cup due to issues with obtaining visas from the US. This was announced by the representative of the Football Federation of Iran, Amir Mehdi Alavi.

"Due to the unsportsmanlike behavior of the American side, the Iranian delegation decided not to participate in the draw, which will take place on December 5," he explained in an interview with Iranian state television.

The draw will take place in Washington. And the Ukrainian team has two more opponents to defeat on the way to the World Cup.

Important match against Sweden

The semi-final playoff involving Ukraine is scheduled for March 26, 2026. If our team wins, they will meet in the final with the winner of the Poland – Albania pair.

During the European qualification, the Ukrainian team successfully passed the first stage, achieving an important victory in a decisive match against Iceland. In a grueling confrontation, the Ukrainians scored two goals in the second half.

Aiming for victory

The match against Iceland ended with a score of 2:0 in favor of Ukraine thanks to goals from Zubkov and Hutsulyak. The game against Azerbaijan ended in a 1:1 draw. In the match with France, our players lost 0:2.

During the qualification matches, the fans of the Ukrainian team showed their support and faith in the team by raising a banner that read "Fortress of Europe."

The Ukrainian team continues to strive for victory and prepares for the next challenges on the way to the 2026 World Cup, demonstrating a high level of play and great sports spirit.