FIFA Could Replace Team As Conflict Disruptions Threaten World Cup Play-Off

FIFA Could Replace Team As Conflict Disruptions Threaten World Cup Play-Off 

By BSN Sports 

FIFA could invoke a rarely used provision in its regulations if an upcoming intercontinental play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is called off due to unforeseen circumstances, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The staging of the decisive qualifying match involving the Iraq national football team has come under doubt amid travel disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Iraq are scheduled to face either the Bolivia national football team or the Suriname national football team on March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico, with the winner securing a place at this year’s expanded World Cup tournament.

However, the match is now under threat following the closure of Iraqi airspace after air strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have further destabilised travel across the region.

Even before the latest developments, concerns had been raised about the safety of hosting World Cup fixtures in Mexico due to gang-related violence. Nevertheless, Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, previously played down those concerns, saying he was “not worried” about the situation.

According to a report by The Guardian, FIFA has indicated that the play-off match is still expected to proceed. However, a source close to the Iraqi team warned that significant logistical hurdles remain.

Travel and Training Disruptions

The conflict has already disrupted preparations for Iraq, with players unable to assemble for training.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Iraqi football federation said the situation had also affected head coach Graham Arnold, who is currently based in the United Arab Emirates and unable to travel due to airspace restrictions.

The federation added that several embassies remain closed, preventing players and members of the technical and medical staff from obtaining visas required to travel to Mexico.

“We assure our loyal supporters that we remain in close contact with both FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation, who are monitoring the situation closely,” the statement said.

FIFA’s “Force Majeure” Clause

Under Article 6 of FIFA’s regulations for the 2026 World Cup, provisions exist to address situations in which a participating team cannot take part in a match.

Regulation 6.5 covers cases of “force majeure” — defined as unforeseen events that prevent a match from taking place. In such circumstances, FIFA’s organising body has the authority to determine the outcome and implement any necessary measures.

The rules also state that if a match cannot be played, the relevant confederation and the participating teams may propose a resolution, subject to FIFA’s approval.

Additionally, Regulation 6.7 allows FIFA to replace a team that withdraws from the tournament entirely, or take other steps it considers appropriate.

The clause means FIFA could either invite a replacement nation to take the vacant spot or modify the competition format if necessary.

For now, organisers maintain that preparations for the play-off match continue while officials monitor developments in the region.