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Iraq and UAE could take Iran’s World Cup finals spot due to Middle East crisis

March 2, 2026

Iraq and the United Arab Emirates are potential replacements for Iran in the 2026 World Cup if Iran withdraws due to ongoing regional tensions. FIFA's regulations on team replacements are unclear, and such a withdrawal would mark the first since 1950. The Iranian Football Federation has expressed concerns about the country's participation.

Iraq and UAE could take Iran’s World Cup finals spot due to Middle East crisis

Credit: Theguardian

Key Highlights

Iran qualified for the World Cup by winning Group A in Asia's qualifiers.
Iraq and UAE are the most likely candidates to replace Iran if they withdraw.
Iraq will compete in an intercontinental playoff against Bolivia or Suriname.
FIFA's regulations on replacing teams are vague.
A withdrawal by Iran would be the first in World Cup history since 1950.

World Cup 2026 Fifa Iraq United Arab Emirates Iran World Cup Football politics football Sport US sports sports/football

Sources

This quick summary is automatically generated using AI based on reports from multiple news sources. The content has not been reviewed or verified by humans. For complete details, accuracy, and context, please refer to the original published articles.

Iraq and UAE could take Iran’s World Cup finals spot due to Middle East crisis

Key Highlights

Sources

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