A week after US missile strikes on Iran, the Iranian Football Federation is weighing withdrawal from the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid heightened tensions, risking financial penalties and replacement by another Asian team. FIFA continues to monitor the situation for a safe tournament.
Following US President Donald Trump's announcement of missile strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026—which prompted FIFA to monitor developments for the 2026 World Cup—Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj indicated the country no longer views participation with hope due to the 'viciousness' of the attack. No formal withdrawal has been filed, but options include Iran pulling out or the US barring entry.
Trump remarked, 'I really don’t care [if Iran plays]. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They're running on fumes.' FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström reiterated monitoring for a safe event 'with everybody participating.'
Iran, drawn into Group G on December 5, 2025, in Washington, DC—where visa issues sidelined five delegation members including Taj—faces matches at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Lumen Field in Seattle. Trump received the FIFA Peace Prize at the draw from President Gianni Infantino.
Withdrawing more than 30 days before the June tournament incurs at least 250,000 Swiss francs in fines, rising to 500,000 thereafter, plus forfeiture of $10.5 million in funds and potential exclusion from 2030 qualifying. FIFA holds discretion under Article 6.7.
Asia's replacement could be Iraq (via March 31 intercontinental playoff) or the United Arab Emirates if Iraq qualifies independently, with decisions feasible by early April.
