Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup threatened by Middle East war, less than 100 days before kick-off

A mere 100 days away from the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup (June 11 to July 19), New York's Empire State Building lit up for several minutes on Tuesday, March 3, in the colors of the three host nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. On the same day, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) unveiled the official poster for the year's most anticipated sporting event, which, according to its statement, "will experience moments that go beyond football, uniting cultures and celebrating unity on a truly global stage."

That spirit of harmony promoted by FIFA is now endangered by the war in the Middle East, which was triggered on February 28 by the Israeli-American offensive in Iran. For several days, the conflict has disrupted nearly everything, including the region's sporting calendar. Numerous competitions have been suspended in both the Islamic Republic and in countries targeted by Iran in retaliation. Doubts have surfaced over whether the "Finalissima" – a football match between Argentina, the winners of the Copa America and Spain, the reigning European champions – that is scheduled for March 27 in Qatar will go ahead. The fate of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Bahrain on April 12 and in Saudi Arabia on April 19 is equally up in the air.