According to Indonesian media predictions, the complicated security situation in the Middle East could force the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and FIFA to reconsider the venue for the 4th qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup in Asia, scheduled to take place from October 8 to 14.
Previously, the AFC had chosen Qatar and Saudi Arabia as host for the two groups in this important qualifying round, where 6 teams including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, UAE, Iraq and Oman will compete for the last 2 tickets in the Asian region to the 2026 World Cup. The draw for the group stage will take place on July 17.
However, a prestigious Indonesian newspaper said that the risk of conflict or lack of security control in this area could prevent FIFA and the AFC from taking risks in organizing tournaments in these countries.
A source from the newspaper said that the final decision on whether to relocate the venue or not is likely to be made in late August or early September - about a month before the start date. This is the minimum time to ensure logistics, accommodation, and security for the teams and the organizing committee.
If the security situation does not change positively in the next few months, the possibility of the AFC and FIFA moving the entire 4th qualifying round to a more neutral and safe country like Jordan or an East Asian country is possible.
Currently, FIFA and the AFC have not made any official announcements. However, according to observations from the regional media, all scenarios are being put on the table to prepare for a safe tournament without interruption by political factors.
