Middle East conflict threatens Iraq’s participation in World Cup playoffs

Iraq are scheduled to play in the playoff final on March 31 in Mexico, but the team’s participation remains uncertain.Published On 5 Mar 2026Iraq’s participation in ‌the inter-confederation playoffs in Mexico that will decide two ⁠berths at this ⁠year’s World Cup is in doubt because of the travel chaos triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.The Iraqis ⁠are scheduled to play the winners of an earlier tie between Bolivia and Suriname in Monterrey on March 31 for a ⁠spot at the World Cup, but are concerned they might not be able to get everyone to Mexico.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4‘Sports cold war’: How the Middle East conflict could disrupt the World Cuplist 2 of 4Iran’s Women’s Asian Cup team have ‘so much concern’ for families back homelist 3 of 4FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket frenzy unfolds amid global unrestlist 4 of 4Will the US-Israeli attacks on Iran have an impact on the World Cup?end of listIraqi airspace has been closed since the United States and Israel launched air attacks on Iran last ‌weekend. Tehran responded by launching waves of missiles and drones at Israel and towards several military bases in the Middle East where US forces operate.“FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation are fully aware of every development regarding our team’s situation,” the Iraq national team said in a statement on Wednesday.“Because of airspace closures, our head coach Graham Arnold is unable to ⁠leave the United Arab Emirates. In addition, several ⁠embassies remain closed at the present time, preventing several players, technical and medical staff from obtaining entry visas to Mexico.“We assure our loyal supporters that we remain ⁠in close contact with both FIFA and the AFC, who are keeping tabs on the situation.”Iraq have made one previous appearance at the World Cup, in 1986, when they failed to progress from the group stage. ⁠They are now favourites to win the playoff and become the ninth Asian team to qualify for the finals.The Lions of Mesopotamia are currently ranked 58th in FIFA’s team rankings and seventh in Asia.