FIFA Begins Talks on Potential Replacement for Iran at 2026 World Cup

FIFA officials are preparing contingency plans to fill Iran’s place at the 2026 World Cup after the Iranian Football Federation signalled it may not participate in the tournament.

The 2026 edition of the World Cup is scheduled to take place primarily in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran had secured qualification by topping its Asian qualifying group.

Iran’s decision follows a period of heightened geopolitical tension in the Middle East. The federation’s statement cited regional instability as a key factor in its uncertainty about travelling to and competing in the event.

With Iran’s status now unresolved, FIFA must identify a team to complete Group F alongside Egypt, Belgium and New Zealand.

One option under discussion is advancing the United Arab Emirates, who finished second in Iran’s qualifying group. However, the UAE subsequently lost to Iraq in the match that would have sent them to the intercontinental play‑off.

Iraq will now face the winner of the tie between Bolivia and Suriname for a place in the World Cup.

That result has complicated the replacement process, and some stakeholders have raised the possibility of awarding Iraq Iran’s spot directly, which could then move the UAE into the play‑off position.

FIFA is expected to review the situation in the coming weeks and issue a formal decision on any change to the tournament lineup.