The tense geopolitical situation in the Middle East is beginning to affect preparations for the 2026 World Cup. According to Arab News, the Iraqi Football Federation asked FIFA to postpone its intercontinental playoff scheduled for March 31 against the winner of the match between Bolivia and Suriname.
Iraq’s request comes as the country faces major logistical problems linked to the regional conflict and the closure of airspace.
FIFA has reportedly rejected the proposal, leaving the Iraqi team in a difficult position. The federation explained that head coach Graham Arnold is currently unable to leave the United Arab Emirates, while several embassies remain closed, preventing players and staff from securing the visas required to travel to Mexico. As the deadline approaches, uncertainty continues to grow around Iraq’s participation in the decisive playoff.
OtuonyeEmeka
1
Pls let them be swapped with Nigeria. We deserved a spot in the world cup if not the stupidity of our previous coaches especially Finidi George
Kingitovic
0
if they are not ready, they are other countries ready to participate
zaomnoprtu
0
Iran ☫
neubdilosy
0
Infantino has been bought...Years will confirm this corruption
Desciklnot
0
imagine iran winning the world cup in front of USA
but their prime minister won't be there to witness it 🤣🤣🤣🤣
TempleofGod
1
not only boycott, it's girlcott. We won't allow the Beautiful Game to be influenced by Politics.
darkxiao
1
I smelt money flying above the president head 🤣🤣
Gray-T
0
everyone should boycott fifa world cup 2026
speak for yourself
bashfmcngu
3
good we need Iran in the world cup because they have already qualified.
Yupabklort
2
UAE can come
pde
1
why in football also
pooceikort
1
They don’t want them there
foyez_ahmed258
3
everyone should boycott fifa world cup 2026
cawaekmnoy
1
imagine iran winning the world cup in front of USA
u're just delusional they can't outburst us stupid boy
Nenadiopty
5
hypocrisy FIFA, Iraq should just boycott the world cup and be safe.
rataclmpry
3
Nonsense, fifa europenalided
yuwablnouy
3
if rejected let FIFA go and play themselves
Elijay
2
imagine iran winning the world cup in front of USA