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Iran's World Cup Place in US Put in Doubt by Middle East War. FIFA Has Iraq Next in Line

Iran's World Cup spot is uncertain amid conflict linked to U.S. co-hosting; withdrawal risks $10.5 million loss and possible exclusion from 2030 tournament, FIFA said.

  • On Monday, Iran's World Cup place was put in doubt amid an escalating Middle East conflict tied to the United States; Iran is due to play its three group-stage games in the U.S. from June 15-26.
  • Coordinated U.S. and Israeli attacks since Saturday killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of officials, and Mehdi Taj said, `What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope.`
  • Under FIFA rules, the organisation can act at its sole discretion, with Article 6.7 allowing FIFA president Gianni Infantino to decide participation and replacement matters; FIFA has declined to comment since Saturday but said it will monitor developments.
  • It remains unclear if the Iranian federation will send its team or if the U.S. government could block participation, while Iran's diaspora likely supports the team amid visa-denied officials.
  • If Iran withdraws, its federation would face disciplinary fines of $321K or $642K, and Iraq is scheduled to play on March 31, with potential replacement options including the UAE.
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63 Articles

Lean Right

It is hard to imagine that Iran will participate in the World Cup. Should the country itself cancel, however, there are financial penalties and high repayments to FIFA. A million-dollar premium would also be lost. In addition, there could be a ban on the upcoming World Cup.

Lean Left

After the riots in Mexico, the Iran war overshadows the preparations for the World Cup. Suddenly, scenarios are conceivable that were previously considered impossible.

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Far Left

The possible withdrawal of the Persian team would force FIFA to seek a substitute and question the integrity of the tournament on American soil.

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Modern Ghana broke the news in Accra, Ghana on Monday, March 2, 2026.
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