How much financial penalty will Iran have to pay to FIFA, if they withdraw from FIFA World Cup 2026

Iran may have to pay a huge financial penalty if it pulls out of the FIFA World Cup 2026. According to tournament regulations, any team that withdraws after qualifying must pay a fine and return funds received for preparation and participation.

The rules are clearly mentioned in Article 6 of the official competition guidelines.

The final decision would rest with FIFA’s disciplinary bodies if Iran formally decides not to take part in the tournament.The World Cup 2026 will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran has already qualified and selected Tucson’s Kino Sports Complex as their training base. They are scheduled to play New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in the group stage.

However, recent statements by Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj have raised doubts about the Iran football team's participation in the World Cup. Any withdrawal could bring serious sporting and financial consequences.

Iran to pay back millions of dollars to FIFA if they boycott FIFA World Cup 2026

FIFA regulations clearly state that any participating member association that withdraws from the 2026 World Cup faces financial punishment. Article 6.2 reads, “Any Participating Member Association that withdraws from the Fifa World Cup 26 no later than 30 days before the first match of the final competition shall be fined at least CHF250,000 by the Fifa Disciplinary Committee.”

In US dollar terms, this means a minimum fine of about $275,000 if Iran withdraws more than 30 days before the June 11 kick-off of the FIFA World Cup 2026. If the withdrawal happens within 30 days of the tournament, the fine increases to at least $550,000.In addition to the fine, Iran would have to return tournament funds. Notably, FIFA provides $1.5 million for team preparation and $10.5 million for participation. That means Iran could be required to repay a total of $12 million, along with the financial penalty.Further action is also possible. Under Article 6.7, FIFA may take additional disciplinary measures. These could also include banning the team from future competitions. FIFA would also decide how to replace the team in the tournament.If Iran withdraws, Iraq or UAE could benefit. Iraq earned a place in the intercontinental play-off while UAE finished at third. These teams may move forward depending on FIFA’s final decision.