Tensions across the Middle East triggered by U.S. airstrikes on Iran are sending shockwaves through the football world. The 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, now just three months away, faces potential disruption.
Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, said on Iranian state television on Thursday that "it will be difficult to expect participation in this World Cup given the situation of being attacked by the United States," according to Spanish outlet Marca.
While the World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Iran—an Asian football powerhouse—is scheduled to play all three group stage matches on U.S. soil. Placed in Group G, Iran is set to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, respectively, followed by Egypt in Seattle on June 26. However, the team's participation in the tournament itself now appears uncertain.
FIFA has offered only a generic response, stating that "our goal is for all teams to participate and compete safely in the World Cup."
Should Iran withdraw from the World Cup, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates are being mentioned as potential replacements. The BBC reported that if Iran forfeits its spot, Iraq—currently awaiting the intercontinental playoff—would take its place, with the playoff opportunity then passing to the UAE, which had the best record among teams eliminated in qualifying.
The Finalissima, a match between the European and South American continental champions scheduled for Qatar, and AFC Champions League Elite matches in the Middle East have all been postponed. The Finalissima had generated significant anticipation for a showdown between Spanish star Lamine Yamal and Argentine legend Lionel Messi.
Meanwhile, Lee Ki-je, a former South Korean national team defender who joined Iranian Persian Gulf Pro League club Mes Rafsanjan in January, has reportedly taken refuge at the South Korean Embassy in Tehran and is arranging his return home.