War tensions put Iran’s 2026 World Cup dream at risk

March 2, 2026 Oliver Obel

FIFA says it is closely monitoring developments after escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran cast uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking in Wales on February 28, shortly after reports emerged that the United States had launched what President Donald Trump described as “major combat operations” against Iran, FIFA general secretary Mattias Grafstrom said it was too early to draw conclusions.

"I read the news [about Iran] this morning the same way you did," Grafstrom said, according to ESPN.

"We had a meeting today and it is premature to comment in detail, but we will monitor developments around all issues around the world.

"We had the finals draw in Washington in which all teams participated, and our focus is on a safe World Cup with all the teams participating.

"We will continue to communicate as we always do with three [host] governments as we always do in any case. Everybody will be safe."

The 2026 tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, with several matches scheduled to be played on U.S. soil.

Federation Chief: Participation “Unlikely”

Iran had secured qualification for its fourth consecutive World Cup in March 2025 and was drawn to play its group-stage matches in the United States in June. Fixtures include games against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

However, Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, suggested that participation may now be in jeopardy.

In remarks broadcast on Tehran’s state television and reported by Spanish outlet Marca, Taj said: "With what happened today and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the World Cup, but the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that."

Taj also confirmed that Iran’s domestic football league has been suspended indefinitely amid the unfolding situation.

The Trump administration has said the military action conducted alongside Israel is intended to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. President Trump has also publicly urged Iranians to challenge their country’s leadership. Iranian officials have condemned the strikes, further deepening diplomatic tensions.

What Happens If Iran Withdraws?

FIFA has not indicated that Iran has been barred from the tournament, and no formal decision has been announced. However, the possibility of a withdrawal has raised questions about replacement procedures under international qualification rules.

Under the Asian qualifying structure, the United Arab Emirates and Iraq remain the most immediate candidates should a vacancy arise. Although the UAE finished behind Iraq in the final qualification standings, Iraq is currently scheduled to compete in an intercontinental play-off later this spring against either Bolivia or Suriname.

One potential scenario would see Iraq elevated directly to the World Cup finals, with the UAE stepping into Iraq’s play-off position. Any such decision would ultimately require FIFA approval and coordination with the Asian Football Confederation.

Political tensions have affected international sporting events before, but tournament organizers typically attempt to separate geopolitical disputes from competition logistics. Whether that precedent holds in this case may depend on diplomatic developments in the coming weeks.

For now, FIFA officials say their focus remains on ensuring the tournament proceeds safely with all qualified teams though Iran’s place in the competition appears increasingly uncertain.

Sources: Marca, ESPN