FIFA considering two candidates to replace Iran at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Iran’s participation at the 2026 World Cup is in doubt after the US strike and an escalating regional crisis, and FIFA is weighing two Asian replacements if the team withdraws. The tournament is due to start on 11 June.

The Guardian reports that Iraq would be first in line to take Iran’s spot if they fail to qualify via the intercontinental route, with United Arab Emirates next if Iraq make it through.

FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström said on Saturday the aim is to stage a safe World Cup with all teams involved. Iranian federation president Mehdi Taj has questioned taking part after the attack, saying hope has ebbed.

FIFA’s regulations do not set out how to replace a team already qualified, instead granting the organisation full discretion to take necessary measures, including naming another association. No side has withdrawn after the draw since 1950, when France and India pulled out over travel costs.

Iran booked their place by winning Group A in Asia’s third round and are slated to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle.

Iraq beat United Arab Emirates in an Asian play-off to reach an intercontinental play-off on 31 March in Monterrey against Bolivia or Suriname, with the winner securing a World Cup berth.

FIFA is pressing ahead with plans despite US-Iran tensions. The US has barred Iranian citizens from entry, with limited exemptions for players, staff and support personnel, and several Iranian officials, including Taj, were denied visas for December’s draw in Washington.

Source: Superdeporte