Iraq’s national football team may face disruptions in its bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Head coach Graham Arnold has requested that Iraq’s decisive inter-continental play-off, scheduled for 31 March in Monterrey, Mexico, be postponed. The team is set to face the winner of Bolivia vs. Suriname for a spot in the World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Arnold, who took over as Iraq’s coach in May 2025, expressed concerns that travel disruptions could prevent the team from assembling its strongest squad. Iraqi airspace has been closed since 28 February due to missile and drone attacks by Iran following US-Israeli strikes.
“It wouldn’t be our best team, and we need our best team for the country’s biggest game in 40 years,” Arnold told FIFA’s website.
“The Iraqi people are so passionate about football, and qualifying for the World Cup after four decades carries deep emotional significance.”
Iraq earned the play-off spot by defeating the United Arab Emirates 3-2 on aggregate in the fifth round of Asian qualifying last November. Bolivia and Suriname will meet on 26 March to determine Iraq’s opponent.
Arnold suggested that a short delay would allow Iraq to properly prepare once travel conditions improve. He proposed that Bolivia and Suriname play first, with Iraq facing the winner closer to the World Cup.
“Our federation president, Adnan Dirjal, is working around the clock to make everyone in Iraq’s dream come true, so we need this decision made quickly,” Arnold said.
The request highlights the impact of geopolitical tensions on international sports, as Iraq seeks to make a historic return to the global stage after four decades.
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