By Danjuma Amodu | February 5, 2016
US President Donald Trump has expressed indifference to Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating, “I really don’t care” if they take part. He described Iran as “a very badly defeated country” that’s “running on fumes.” This comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the US and Israel launching strikes on Iranian targets and Iran retaliating with missile and drone attacks.
Iran had qualified for the tournament, scheduled to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in the group stage, but its participation is now uncertain.
FIFA is monitoring the situation, while Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, suggests the country may reconsider its involvement. The tournament, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, is set to begin on June 11, 2026.
If Iran withdraws, FIFA’s rules allow for potential replacement procedures, with teams like Iraq or the United Arab Emirates possible contenders. Iraq is currently slated to participate in the intercontinental playoff in late March, and if they win, they’ll take Iran’s spot.
The UAE finished third in Iran’s AFC qualification group and lost to Iraq in the playoff, making them a potential replacement if Iraq wins the playoff.
