Austria, Yugoslavia, Russia: teams that missed major tournaments because of war | OneFootball

Iran qualified for the 2026 World Cup yet, entangled in a war involving the USA, one of the hosts, its place is uncertain. Team Melli are in Group G with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, and the tournament runs 11 June to 19 July.

According to L'Équipe, Iran has been in conflict with Israel since 28 February, backed by the USA. Debate over Iran’s participation has seen a White House adviser suggest replacing them with Italy.

In 1938, Austria withdrew after the Anschluss, Nazi Germany’s annexation. Spain did not take part because of the civil war, with accounts split on whether FIFA rejected them or Spain withdrew, and Italy won the tournament.

After 12 years off, the 1950 World Cup in Brazil returned with Germany and Japan suspended as defeated belligerents. Both reappeared at the next edition, which West Germany won in 1954.

Yugoslavia qualified for Euro 1992 despite turmoil, with Croatia and Slovenia declaring independence in June 1991 and war from November 1991. Ten days before kick-off a UN Security Council resolution barred their participation, Denmark were recalled and won, and Yugoslavia were also excluded from 1994 World Cup qualifying.

Russia were due to contest 2022 play-offs, but a month before facing Poland they invaded Ukraine and were suspended by FIFA and UEFA five days after the war began. They remain suspended, missing Euro 2024 and 2026 qualifying, though FIFA appears to be softening and Gianni Infantino said he wants Russia reintegrated.

Source: L'Équipe