US imposes visa ban and restrictions ahead of FIFA World Cup qualifiers

FIFA World Cup 2026: Challenges Emerge Amid Global Uncertainty

The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup is set to commence in three months, but challenges are mounting despite initial expectations of a straightforward tournament. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has created uncertainty worldwide, affecting the competition.

Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, announced that his country cannot participate in the World Cup due to the US killing its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. All of Iran’s national football team games are scheduled to be played in US cities. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that US President Donald Trump would welcome Iran’s participation.

The draw for the tournament suggests a potential head-to-head match between the US and Iran if both teams finish second in their respective groups. However, if the US refuses to host the Iranian team, FIFA could remove them as hosts. This scenario is reminiscent of Indonesia’s experience with the men’s Under-20 World Cup three years ago, where they were forced to drop out due to security concerns.

Iraq faces significant logistical challenges due to the war, including closed airspace and a predominantly domestic league-based squad. The country’s head coach, Graham Arnold, requested FIFA to delay their qualifier match in Monterrey, Mexico, citing difficulties in gathering the team.

Mexico is also dealing with internal issues, including a wave of violence triggered by the killing of a prominent drug lord on February 23. Gunmen torched cars and blocked highways in several states, and Mexican officials are working to ensure FIFA authorities’ safety during the tournament.

The first match of the World Cup will take place in Mexico City, while Guadalajara will host a second match on the same day. The ongoing conflict has created uncertainty for the competition, but FIFA is working to resolve these issues before the tournament begins.

Source: Al Jazeera