FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Iran Be Banned Due To Conflict In Middle East? Key Questions Answered

Trouble keeps brewing in the middle east as conflict between Iran and Israel has further escalated with the United States also getting involved. The conflict is set to have major consequences for the Iranian football fans as the participation of their team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is now in serious doubt. FIFA will have major decisions to make as the conflict continues to escalate.

Below are the answers to some of the common querries regarding Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

What has happened?

Iran and Israel have been engaged in a conflict with both sides exchanging missile strikes. However, on Sunday the United States too joined the hostilities by striking three Iranian nuclear sites. Iran has vowed to respond even as it continues to exchange missile strikes with Israel.

Where is next FIFA World Cup?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place in the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

Have Iran qualified?

Yes, Iran became the sixth team to seal qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If all goes right, this will be their fourth straight appearance in the FIFA World Cup. However, if the hostilities continue, it will become difficult for Iran to play the tournament, especially on US soil.

Are Iranian fans banned from World Cup?

US President Donald Trump imposed a travel ban on several countries including Iran and that means that the fans from the Islamic Republic will not be able to travel to the United States, if things remain as they are. However, for the matches in Canada and Mexico, Iranian fans face no such restrictions.

Can Iran play World Cup without travelling to US?

No. Fixtures for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are still awaited but it is highly unlikely for Iran to play in the tournament without travelling to the US. If they get drawn into Group A, then they might be able to play at least their group games in Canada but any further progression would mean travelling to the US.

A hybrid arrangement will have to be thought of if Iran have to play full tournament and avoid going to the United States. The probability of that happening is also very low.

Can Iran be banned from 2026 FIFA World Cup?

This is a possibility and could become a reality if the conflict keeps going on. Recently, Russia have been banned from all UEFA and FIFA competitions following the country바카라™s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

What has FIFA said?

Nothing. As of now, neither FIFA nor the US football federation have said anything about the scenario.

When is FIFA World Cup 2026 draw?

The draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place in December 2025, almost six months before the tournament.

Has the conflict affected FIFA Club World Cup?

Iran striker Mehdi Taremi has not been able to join his club Inter Milan due to the conflict in his home country.

What is happening in FIFA Club World Cup?

Group stage games are currently on in the Club World Cup with the Round of 16 beginning later this week. No Iranian clubs have been able to qualify for the competition. Al Ain (UAE), Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan) and Ulsan HD (South Korea) are the Asian teams in the event.