FIFA to replace Iran at 2026 World Cup after withdrawal
FIFA will replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup following their withdrawal due to US-Israeli airstrikes. The tournament, hosted mainly in the US, faces complications after Iran's top Asian qualification group finish. FIFA considers fast-tracking UAE as replacement despite UAE losing to Iraq in intercontinental play-off. Iraq now faces Bolivia vs Suriname winner for World Cup spot. Some propose FIFA give Iraq Iran's spot, forcing UAE into play-off.
SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/13/2026-world-cup-fifa-set-to-replace-iran-at-tournament/