Mehdi Taj

Mehdi Taj is the president of Iran's football federation. He is currently newsworthy due to the uncertainty surrounding Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Recent US-Israeli attacks on Iran have cast doubt on Team Melli's participation, with Taj expressing a bleak outlook after the attacks. He has been actively negotiating with FIFA to potentially move Iran's group matches from the United States to Mexico, citing safety concerns for players. However, FIFA has rejected this request, stating the matches will proceed as scheduled. Taj has also objected to the branding of a match against Egypt as an LGBTQ 'Pride Match,' calling it an 'irrational move.' The situation is further complicated by statements from former US President Donald Trump, who has expressed indifference towards Iran's participation. Taj's role is significant as he navigates these complex political and logistical challenges to ensure Iran's presence in the World Cup.