Questions are mounting regarding Iran's national team's participation in the 2026 World Cup finals, given the current geopolitical situation and the potential decision to withdraw before the tournament begins.

Contrary to recent reports, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) is not automatically obliged to call up the losing team in the playoff matches scheduled for March to replace any potential withdrawal.

According to the regulations, the international federation has broad powers that allow it to choose the most suitable scenario, including continuing with groups consisting of only three teams if a withdrawal decision is made shortly before the kickoff.

So far, no official statement has been issued by FIFA or the Iranian Football Federation confirming any intention to withdraw from participation. However, Article 6 of the tournament regulations grants FIFA the right to take appropriate measures, whether by replacing the withdrawing team with another or by adjusting the group format.

The decision primarily depends on the timing of the withdrawal announcement and the ability to manage the accompanying organizational complexities. Time remains the decisive factor in this matter. If the withdrawal occurs before the March playoff, replacing Iran becomes easier by selecting one of the teams participating in that round.

If the decision is made just a few weeks before the tournament kicks off on June 11, adding a new team might face significant challenges related to visa procedures, accommodation arrangements, and travel plans, especially since the upcoming edition will feature 48 teams.

Economically, the international federation does not favor canceling any matches due to the financial losses and disruption of broadcasting rights it entails. However, managing such a scenario remains a complex organizational challenge, especially in a tournament as large as the World Cup, which presents FIFA with a new administrative test if matters escalate to an official withdrawal.