Prolonged political tensions between Iran and the US - the main host of the 2026 World Cup, are raising the possibility that the Iranian team could be banned from participating in the 2026 World Cup. The World Football Federation (FIFA) has not yet spoken out about this issue.
At the level of direct management, the AFC is also very cautious about the issue related to the Iranian team. AFC Datuk Seri Windsor General Secretary Paul John said it was too early to speculate the situation regarding this team. We will definitely find a solution at the right time, he said.
In the past, FIFA has banned teams from countries from participating in military conflicts. FIFA and UEFA have decided to maintain a ban on Russia from tournaments around the world until the 2026 World Cup. Previously, in 1990, FIFA and UEFA also issued a similar ban on the old Nam Tu team.
After that, the Danish team was chosen to replace Nam Tu at EURO 1992 and surprisingly won the championship.
Iran is currently ranked 18th in the world. They have soon qualified for the 2026 World Cup after making it through the third qualifying round relatively easily. Historically, Iran has participated in the 1978, 1998, 2006, 2014, 2018, 2022 World Cups, but has not yet passed the group stage.
In case Iran cannot participate, the UAE is the team that can be chosen as a replacement. This is the third-placed team in Group A of the 3rd qualifying round - a group with Iran at the top.
However, FIFA can completely suggest another option, depending on the actual situation.
