The participation of Iran in the 2026 World Cup is now uncertain after the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following military strikes by the United States and Israel. Khamenei’s death was confirmed by Iranian state television, and U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the incident as the result of “major combat operations.” In retaliation, Iran launched strikes against Israel, with explosions also reported in neighboring countries, including Qatar and Dubai. As a result, the situation has cast doubt on Iran's ability to take part in the World Cup later this year, which is set to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
What is the Current Status of Iran’s World Cup Participation?
Iran had already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and was scheduled to compete in Group G against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. However, recent reports suggest that Iran may withdraw from the tournament due to the ongoing conflict. On March 1, Ragip Soylu from Middle East Eye shared that Iranian media reported the country’s football team had pulled out of the tournament. This was confirmed by Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s Football Federation, who stated that the country's participation seemed “unlikely” in light of the current situation.
Despite these reports, on March 2, Reza Zabib, Iran's ambassador to Spain, gave an interview with AS, asserting that Iran would indeed participate in the World Cup, claiming, “Iran has the right to be there. We will go.” These conflicting statements have left the situation unclear, with no official decision having been made yet.
Statements from Political Figures and FIFA
When asked about Iran’s World Cup participation, U.S. President Donald Trump seemed indifferent, stating, "I really don’t care. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.” Additionally, Politico reported that Iran was absent from a FIFA team planning event in Atlanta on March 3. This absence raised further questions about the nation’s ability to participate.
FIFA, on the other hand, has yet to make an official statement on the matter but has expressed its intention to monitor the ongoing situation closely. Mattias Grafstrom, FIFA’s secretary-general, said during the International Football Association Board's meeting on February 28 that while it was too early to comment in detail, FIFA would ensure the safety and participation of all teams, stating, “Our focus is on a safe World Cup with all the teams participating.”
If Iran participates in the World Cup, they are scheduled to start their Group G campaign on June 15 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where they will face New Zealand. Iran will then play Belgium at the same venue on June 21 and will head to Seattle’s Lumen Field on June 26 to take on Egypt. These matches are critical for Iran’s progression in the tournament, and the uncertainty surrounding their participation adds to the drama.
Who Could Replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup?
Should Iran withdraw from the 2026 World Cup, the most straightforward scenario would be for another team from the region to take their place. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Iraq are the most likely candidates. Iraq is scheduled to play a World Cup playoff match against Bolivia or Suriname in March, with the winner entering Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway.
The UAE, which finished second behind Qatar in Group A of Asia's World Cup qualifiers, lost a crucial tie against Iraq last November to determine which team would advance to the intercontinental playoffs. Should Iraq replace Iran directly, the UAE would likely be positioned to take over the vacant playoff spot, ensuring that the tournament remains competitive in Iran’s absence.
With official decisions still pending, the situation remains fluid. Fans will be keeping a close watch on further developments as the World Cup approaches.
