Iraq manager calls for emergency FIFA decision

March 10, 2026 Oliver Obel

Iraq’s hopes of reaching the World Cup for the first time in four decades have been thrown into uncertainty as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt the team’s travel plans.

National team manager Graham Arnold has appealed to FIFA to delay Iraq’s upcoming play-off, warning that security concerns and airspace restrictions could prevent the squad from leaving the country in time for the match.

Travel restrictions threaten preparations

Iraq are scheduled to face either Suriname or Bolivia in a one-off qualifying play-off in Monterrey, Mexico on March 31. The winner would secure a place at this summer’s World Cup.

However, the fixture has been cast into doubt after recent military action involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Iran responded with missile strikes targeting US military bases across the region.

According to ESPN, one such base is located in the Iraqi city of Erbil, which has reportedly been affected by the escalation. Authorities have since closed Iraqi airspace, and it is not expected to reopen until April 1 a day after the planned play-off.

Domestic-based squad unable to travel

Much of Iraq’s national team is made up of players who compete in the country’s domestic league. With flights suspended, many members of the squad and coaching staff currently have no way to leave Iraq.

The disruption has already forced changes to the team’s preparation schedule. A pre-match training camp that had been planned in Houston has now been cancelled.

Arnold, who previously coached Australia and guided them to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has urged football’s governing body to reconsider the timing of the match.

Speaking to AAP, Arnold said: “Please help us with this game because right now we are struggling to get our players out of the country of Iraq.”

Arnold proposes alternative schedule

Arnold believes postponing the play-off could offer a practical solution for all parties.

“In my opinion, if FIFA were to delay the game, it gives us time to prepare properly. Let Bolivia play Suriname this month and then a week before the World Cup, we play the winner in the U.S the winner of that game stays on and the loser goes home,” he said.

He also suggested that moving the match closer to the start of the tournament would give FIFA additional time to assess possible changes to the qualification picture.

“If Iran withdraws, we go into the World Cup, and it gives the UAE, who we beat in qualifying, the chance to prepare for either Bolivia or Suriname,” Arnold added.

“Our federation's president Adnan Dirjal is working around the clock trying to plan and prepare to make everyone in Iraq's dream come true, so we need this decision made quickly.”

Safety concerns over alternative travel plan

According to The Guardian, FIFA has explored ways to keep the Monterrey play-off on schedule despite the travel disruption.

One proposal reportedly suggested that Iraqi players travel overland from Baghdad to Istanbul before flying to Mexico. The journey would take roughly 25 hours and pass through areas that have recently experienced Iranian drone attacks.

Arnold is understood to have rejected the idea, telling the Iraq Football Association he would not allow players to undertake such a lengthy and potentially dangerous trip under current conditions.

Iraq have not appeared at a World Cup since 1986 and remain just one match away from ending that 40-year absence.

Sources: ESPN, The Guardian, AAP