What happens if Iran withdraw from 2026 FIFA World Cup?
What's the story
Iran are staring at disciplinary action from FIFA, including a potential ban from the impending tournaments, if they withdraw from the World Cup. Mehdi Taj, the Iranian Football Federation president, recently expressed doubts about their participation in this year's tournament. However, under FIFA rules, member associations cannot withdraw from competitions; doing so would result in penalties. Here are further details.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. Amid the ongoing US-Israel attacks on Iran and the subsequent retaliation, which affected the entire Middle East, it remains to be seen if the Iranian football side travels to the US. The conflict broke out after the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28 in a joint US-Israeli strike.
Withdrawal consequences
FIFA regulations on withdrawal
FIFA's tournament regulations include provisions to protect against withdrawals. If a team withdraws before the tournament, it could be fined between €275,000 and €555,000, depending on when it pulls out. The case would then be referred to FIFA's disciplinary committee, which could impose sporting sanctions. "Participating associations that withdraw at any stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 shall be required to reimburse all funds received from FIFA for the preparation of their national team," according to these regulations.
Disciplinary measures
Possible sanctions
The FIFA disciplinary committee could impose further penalties depending on various factors such as the timing of the withdrawal and the seriousness of the infringement, among others. These sanctions could include exclusion from a future FIFA competition or replacement by another association. Iran has participated in six World Cups, including the last three editions held in Brazil, Russia, and Qatar.
Group stage
Travel ban issue for Iran
In the upcoming World Cup, Iran are placed in Group G with New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. If both teams qualify as group runners-up, they would meet the USA in the knockout stage. However, a travel ban imposed by the Trump administration last June prevents Iranians from entering the US. Exemptions are given to athletes participating in either this year's FIFA World Cup or the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.