BREAKING: FIFA seeks an Asian team to replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup

Ongoing off-field complications have forced FIFA to consider substituting Iran with another Asian team for the 2026 World Cup.

FIFA is seriously contemplating the possibility that Iran might be unable to participate in the 2026 World Cup, due to non-sporting issues related to the host nation. Although Iran secured qualification early and was placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, the team still faces the risk of being replaced, prompting FIFA to prepare contingency plans.

In reality, FIFA always prioritizes protecting the sporting achievements of teams, but when continuous off-field problems severely impact the organization of the 2026 World Cup, the federation must consider backup options. According to regulations, if a qualified team cannot participate due to objective reasons, their spot will be given to a suitable replacement, typically the runner-up of the play-offs or the highest-ranked team without a ticket.

Within Asia, the UAE has emerged as a suitable candidate. This team holds the highest ranking among those who did not qualify directly after Iran. Despite losing to Iraq in the regional play-offs, the UAE meets several criteria regarding performance, ranking, and readiness for FIFA's consideration in case a replacement is necessary.

Besides the UAE, Iraq is another option under review. One scenario discussed is allowing Iraq direct entry to the 2026 World Cup in place of Iran, while the UAE would take Iraq’s position in the intercontinental play-offs. This approach helps FIFA minimize disruption and maintain competitive balance.

FIFA’s rules also allow flexibility in special cases. If replacement faces challenges related to timing, travel, or host country procedures, FIFA may keep the existing match schedule unchanged and simply swap the teams within the group. Even group compositions can be adjusted if necessary.

Historically, team withdrawals from the World Cup for non-sporting reasons are rare but not unprecedented. Therefore, FIFA remains cautious but proactively prepares alternative plans to ensure the 2026 World Cup proceeds smoothly, on schedule, and maintains fairness.