Khaberni - Uncertainty surrounds the fate of Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup finals due to the American-Israeli war against Iran.
In the midst of escalating developments in recent hours, Iran may not participate in the 2026 World Cup, to be held this summer in America, Canada, and Mexico.
Although there has been no official announcement regarding withdrawal or non-participation, this possibility is not ruled out especially since the tournament is about three months away, prompting FIFA to develop alternative plans.
The Iranian team is in Group Seven at the 2026 World Cup, which includes teams from Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand.
The team, led by star player Mehdi Taremi, is scheduled to start their World Cup journey facing New Zealand, before playing against Belgium, and then concluding their group stage matches against Egypt, in the second half of June.
In case a team withdraws before the start of the World Cup, FIFA regulations stipulate replacing the team, with the selection based on qualifying rankings.
If the Iranian team withdraws from the World Cup, the most likely direction would be choosing a replacement from the same continent, but the final decision rests with FIFA.
The match schedule will remain as it is in the World Cup, with the replacement team fitting into the same group and participating normally according to the match order.
With the United States and Israel launching missile and air strikes in Iran, FIFA Secretary General Matthias Grafstrom revealed that the situation will remain under observation.
Grafstrom stated at the annual general meeting of the FIFA Council in Wales: "I read the news (about Iran) this morning in the same way you did."
He added in remarks reported by the "ESPN" network: "We held a meeting, and it is too early to comment in detail, but we will continue to monitor developments related to all issues around the world."
He continued: "We conducted the final draw in Washington with participation from all teams, and our focus is on holding a safe World Cup with the participation of all teams."
The FIFA Secretary General concluded saying: "We will continue to communicate as usual with the three host governments, as always, and everyone will be safe."
It is noted that Los Angeles will host two matches for Iran, while Seattle will host the Iran versus Egypt match on June 26th.
