Iran and Russia, Trump, Infantino, World Cup

World Cup 2026: Iran’s place should be replaced by Russia

March 13, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

A Russian sports commentator has argued that Russia should be allowed to take Iran’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Iran announced it would withdraw from the tournament.

According to bne IntelliNews, Russian television presenter and sports commentator Dmitry Guberniev made the suggestion in a social media post on March 11 shortly after Iran confirmed it would not participate in the competition.

"Iran's place at the World Cup should be taken by Russia! Karpin's sons will beat Mexico 8,3 in the final! America will falter in the semi final 7,10, and Argentina in the quarter final 5,13!" Guberniev wrote on social media.

While the remark appeared exaggerated, it reflects a wider discussion among some Russian football commentators about whether FIFA could theoretically fill the vacant spot with another team.

Debate grows in Russia over possible replacement

Russia has been banned from FIFA and UEFA competitions since March 2022 following its full scale invasion of Ukraine.

According to bne IntelliNews, there is currently no indication that international football authorities are considering lifting the ban. However, Iran’s withdrawal has triggered speculation among some commentators about whether governing bodies could face pressure to find a replacement team.

Former Russia international Alexander Mostovoy also commented on the situation on March 11, according to Sovetsky Sport, although the outlet did not provide details of his remarks.

Iran withdraws from 2026 world cup

Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali confirmed the country’s withdrawal from the tournament.

According to bne IntelliNews, he linked the decision to tensions with the United States, claiming the US government had "killed our supreme leader" and saying Iran could not participate in a tournament partly hosted on American territory.

Iran had been drawn in a group with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. All three of its scheduled group stage matches were set to take place in the United States.

Fifa rules and tournament context

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

According to FIFA regulations, teams that withdraw less than 30 days before the start of the tournament can face a fine of 250,000 Swiss francs, approximately $320,000.

It remains unclear how FIFA would handle a late withdrawal or whether another team could be invited to replace Iran.

Sources: bne IntelliNew