Iran national football team’s reported decision to boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup has prompted FIFA to examine potential replacement teams just weeks before the tournament is set to begin across North America.
The announcement was made by Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, who criticised the United States while confirming the country’s withdrawal from the global tournament.
“There are no conditions under which we would participate in this World Cup,” Donyamali said, citing ongoing geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts.
Under FIFA regulations, the governing body has the authority to nominate a replacement if a qualified team withdraws from the competition. Article 6.7 of the tournament rules states that FIFA may determine “at its sole discretion” how to address such a situation.
Among the nations being mentioned as possible replacements are the Iraq national football team and the United Arab Emirates national football team, both of whom could be considered to fill the vacant slot.
