Zurich: An official from the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) has stated that Iran could be replaced if they decide to withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Reports have surfaced suggesting that the Iran Football Federation is contemplating a boycott of the prestigious tournament following recent missile attacks on their country by Israel and the USA.
According to Ghana Web, the head of Iranian soccer's governing body, Mehdi Taj, expressed the nation's uncertainty about participating in the World Cup, commenting, "What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope." The statement was made following the airstrikes, reflecting the growing tensions and their potential impact on Iran's involvement in international football.
Iran has already secured a place in the intercontinental play-offs, slated for March 2026, where they are set to compete against the winner of the Bolivia and Suriname match. These play-offs, taking place in Mexico, will determine Iran's final position in the tournament.
Addressing the situation, a FIFA official, in conversation with sports journalist Gary Al-Smith, revealed that should Iran qualify through the play-offs but later withdraw, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) would likely take their place. The UAE narrowly missed out on direct qualification, and FIFA has assured that any decision by Iran would be respected without disrupting the tournament's organization.
Gary Al-Smith shared on X that FIFA is exploring scenarios where either Iraq, who could qualify through a continental play-off, or the UAE could fill the vacant spot should Iran opt for a boycott. Meanwhile, FIFA continues to monitor the developments concerning Iran, particularly given the heightened safety concerns due to the involvement of the United States in the ongoing conflict.