What happens if Iran withdraw from 2026 World Cup? Possible replacements under FIFA rules | Football News

If Iran decides to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup, FIFA will face the task of ensuring the tournament proceeds smoothly. According to FIFA Regulation 6.5, the organization has the authority to either select a replacement team or make necessary adjustments to the tournament structure. This ensures that the integrity and balance of the competition are maintained, despite any unexpected withdrawals. The process for selecting a replacement typically involves choosing another team from the same confederation as the withdrawing nation. In this case, an Asian Football Confederation (AFC) team might be considered. The criteria for selection could include the next highest-ranked team from the qualifying rounds or a team that narrowly missed out on qualification, ensuring that the chosen replacement is competitive and deserving of the opportunity. In the event that a suitable replacement cannot be identified, FIFA may opt for an alternative approach, such as tweaking the tournament's format to accommodate the change. This could involve adjustments to group sizes or the introduction of a bye for one of the groups. Regardless of the path chosen, FIFA's primary goal will be to uphold the tournament's quality and fairness, providing fans with an exciting and balanced World Cup experience.

— Authored by Next24 Live