Uncertainty is growing over Iran’s participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Due to recent political circumstances, Iran has yet to make a final decision on whether it will compete. The country’s sports minister, Ahmad Doniyamal, stated that Iran is currently not in a position to take part in the tournament.

If Iran ultimately withdraws, FIFA will need to fill the vacant spot. According to standard procedure, a replacement team is usually selected from the same continent as the withdrawing nation. This has led to speculation that either Iraq or the United Arab Emirates could take Iran’s place. FIFA rules allow the runner-up from the same qualifying group or the highest-ranked team from the same confederation that failed to qualify to be considered.

The UAE’s higher ranking in Asia strengthens its case, while Iraq remains in contention as it is scheduled to face Bolivia or Suriname in an intercontinental playoff. FIFA could directly award Iraq a World Cup berth, with the UAE potentially taking Iraq’s playoff position instead.