How Gianni Infantino holds the key to Iran’s World Cup future? | OneFootball

Political escalation raises serious questions

How Gianni Infantino holds the key to Iran’s World Cup future?

Iran’s participation in the 2026 men’s World Cup is uncertain after rising political tensions and concerns over visas and security.

Why Iran’s World Cup place Is under threat?

Serious doubts have emerged over whether Iran will take part in World Cup 2026 which is scheduled to begin on 11 June.

The concerns come after recent military strikes on Iran by the United States & Israel which have increased political tension just three month before the tournament.

Iran are set to play their three group-stage matches in the US between 15 June & 26 June while Canada & Mexico will also host games.

Speaking after the escalation, Mehdi Taj president of the Iranian Football Federation admitted that the situation has cast shadow over the team’s plans.

He said that after the attacks, it was difficult to look ahead to the World Cup with optimism.

Visa concerns and FIFA silence

One of the biggest issues is entry to the United States. It remains unclear whether Iran would choose not to travel or whether US authorities could block visas for players, staff or officials.

In recent months, several Iranian football officials were reportedly denied visas to attend the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. although limited exceptions were made for players and essential staff.

So far FIFA avoided giving clear answers. Secretary General Mattias Grafström said the organisation is monitoring global developments while stressing the aim of holding a safe tournament with all teams involved.

What the rules say and possible replacements

FIFA regulations allow team to withdraw or be excluded but the wording is vague. Under Article 6.7, FIFA has full discretion to decide the outcome and can replace a team with another association if needed.

This gives Gianni Infantino wide authority in any decision related to Iran. A similar flexibility was seen when FIFA made late decisions around Club World Cup 2025 format.

If Iran withdraw, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is expected to provide a replacement. Iraq are seen as the first option, followed by the United Arab Emirates.

Iraq & the UAE finished ninth and tenth among Asian qualifiers. Iraq won their playoff against the UAE and are set to play intercontinental playoff in Mexico on 31 March against either Bolivia or Suriname.

Financial and sporting impact

A withdrawal would come at a high cost. Iran would lose at least $10.5 million in FIFA payments. Each group-stage exit earns $9 million while all 48 qualified teams receive $1.5 million for preparation.

FIFA could also impose fines of 250,000 Swiss francs if a team withdraws shortly before the tournament rising to 500,000 Swiss francs if the decision is made in the final month.

Iran could also face exclusion from World Cup 2030 qualification.

On the pitch, Iran are one of Asia’s strongest teams. They have qualified for six of the last eight World Cups and are ranked 20th in the FIFA rankings, never dropping below 24 since the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

They secured qualification in March by winning their AFC group and were drawn with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with matches planned in Los Angeles & Seattle.