Who Replaces Iran At FIFA World Cup In United States, Canada And Mexico?

Last Updated:March 13, 2026, 17:43 IST

Iran's 2026 FIFA World Cup participation is uncertain due to US-Iran tensions. Sports minister Ahmad Donyamali hinted at a boycott. FIFA may replace them with UAE or Iraq.

Iran’s participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which starts on June 11, is uncertain. The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, currently faces challenges due to rising tensions between the US and Iran.

Although Iran qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament through the Asian Football Confederation, the current geopolitical climate has complicated the situation. Iran are scheduled to play two group matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

Why Iran Is Considering FIFA World Cup Boycott?

Several of Iran’s group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in the US, raising concerns about the safety of players, officials, and supporters. These concerns have led Iranian authorities to consider withdrawing from the competition.

Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, recently suggested the national team might not travel to the tournament. He stated, “Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup."

“The Iran national soccer team is welcome to the World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety," U.S. President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

Iranian Football Association (FFIRI) issued a statement on social media that read: “The World Cup is a historic and international event and its custodian is FIFA, not any country. Some so-called celebrities want Iran’s team excluded from the World Cup, but if any country should be excluded, it is a host country that cannot ensure the safety of the teams taking part."

Trump clarified his earlier comments, posting: “It will be the Greatest and Safest Sporting Event in American History. All Players, Officials, and Fans will be treated like the “STARS" that they are!"

What Happens If Iran Pull Out?

If Iran withdraws, FIFA will face the challenging task of replacing the qualified team. FIFA regulations allow the governing body to select a replacement if a team withdraws before the World Cup begins.

Typically, the substitute team is chosen from the same continental confederation as the withdrawing team. Since Iran qualified from the Asian Football Confederation, any potential replacement would likely come from Asia.

Who Replaces Iran?

The United Arab Emirates national football team and the Iraq national football team are currently being considered.

The UAE reached the continental play-off stage during qualification, while Iraq defeated the UAE 3–2 to advance to an intercontinental play-off against either Bolivia or Suriname on March 31. Due to this pathway, Iraq could potentially be promoted directly into Iran’s spot if FIFA decides to replace the team.

FIFA Brace For Complicated Call

Replacing a qualified team so close to the World Cup is rare and would involve significant logistical and sporting considerations. FIFA is expected to wait for an official decision from Iran before determining the next steps regarding the tournament lineup.

News sports football Who Replaces Iran At FIFA World Cup In United States, Canada And Mexico?

Read More