Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been cast into doubt after escalating hostilities in the Gulf. The country's football chief has said that preparations for the tournament have been overshadowed by the war. the question, in such circumstances, which also arises is if Iran withdraw, which country will replace it?
Speaking to Iranian sports outlet Varzesh3, Iran's football federation president Mehdi Taj said via ESPN, “What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope.”
His remarks came after US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran triggered a wider conflict, plunging the country into uncertainty.
Also Read | 'Likely More To Come': Trump Signals Prolonged Iran Conflict In 'Operation Epic Fury' Update
Iran Drawn In Group G
Iran have been placed in Group G for the 2026 tournament and are due to open their campaign in Los Angeles against New Zealand on June 15, before facing Belgium on June 21. They are then scheduled to play Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The competition, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19.
Beyond the security situation, travel restrictions could further complicate matters. Iranian nationals may struggle to attend the tournament in the United States following a travel ban imposed in 2025 by US President Donald Trump on citizens from 19 countries, including Iran.
Who Could Replace Iran If They Withdraw?
With less than four months to go before the tournament, questions have emerged over contingency plans should Iran be unable to compete.
According to Yahoo Sports, FIFA's regulations allow for a late replacement through a “nominated alternate, often the direct runner-up from the relevant qualifying playoff or highest-ranked non-qualified team from that confederation.”
On that basis, the United Arab Emirates, which is ranked No. 72 by FIFA, would be the most likely candidate to step in as the highest-ranked non-qualifier from the Asian Football Confederation.
FIFA Monitoring Situation
According to BBC, while FIFA has maintained a cautious public stance, officials of football's governing body are privately indicating that they still expect Iran to take part in the tournament. On Feb. 28, FIFA general secretary Mattias Grafstrom said, “I read the news the same way as you did this morning. Our focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.”
Regional Instability Deepens After Khamenei's Killing
Al Jazeera reported that Iran continues to target US assets across the Gulf following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and up to 40 senior Iranian officials. The strikes have reportedly resulted in one death in Bahrain, while Iraq and Kuwait have also reported further Iranian raids.
Khamenei's killing has thrown the future of the Islamic Republic into doubt, fuelling fears of broader instability across the Middle East.
ALSO READ: What Is India's Stand On US-Iran War? Here's What You Need To Know
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.