The escalating conflict in the Middle East is casting a shadow over the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, threatening the participation of Iran and potentially Iraq. With qualifying pathways disrupted, the tournament’s field is facing unexpected uncertainty as geopolitical tensions rise.
The joint military operation by Israel and the United States against Iran has prompted serious doubts about Iran’s ability to compete in the World Cup. The Iranian Football Federation has indicated that participation for Team Melli is “unlikely given what has happened.”
Should Iran be unable to participate, Iraq currently stands as the next highest-ranked AFC nation that did not automatically qualify. The United Arab Emirates would be another potential replacement, but only if Iraq advances through the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March.
Iraqi Playoff Bid in Jeopardy?
However, Iraq’s own participation in the intercontinental playoffs is now in question. The Iraqi national team is scheduled to face the winner of the Suriname-Bolivia match on March 31st in Mexico.
Since the U.S. Military action in Iran, Iraqi airspace has been completely closed. The federation fears this will make it impossible for the Iraqi delegation to travel to Mexico. “We are monitoring the situation, in collaboration with FIFA and the AFC,” a team statement confirmed.
Iraq’s national team coach, Graham Arnold, is currently stranded in the United Arab Emirates. Numerous players are based in the Middle East, including within Iran itself, and would also be unable to travel to Mexico under the current circumstances.
