The World Cup and Finalissima explore options amid Iran crisis
The escalating conflict in the Middle East has repercussions for the Spain-Argentina match in Qatar on May 27th and for Iran's presence in the World Cup.
The armed conflict that has erupted between the United States and Iran has not escaped the world of football. In a week in which the World Cup has also been affected by incidents in Mexico, the crisis has taken on a broader dimension. The IFAB press conference following its annual meeting provided a platform for FIFA to outline its position. General Secretary Mattias Grafström stated: “It is too early to comment, but FIFA is monitoring all situations worldwide and hopes that ultimately the teams and fans will not experience any problems.”
Iran is one of the teams already qualified for the World Cup and, with four months remaining before the tournament begins, the situation is extremely complex. In recent days, attention had focused on Mexico. However, the decision by Donald Trump and Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu to bomb Tehran has pushed everything related to the World Cup into a far more serious crisis.
For now, there is little to do but wait and, as was said at the press conference, hope that the situation returns to normal, although that appears highly unlikely at present.
The World Cup is not the only competition affected. The Finalissima, scheduled for 27 March between Argentina and Spain in Doha, is also in serious jeopardy. Qatar has closed its airspace following bombings carried out by Iranian aircraft in response to recent attacks.
The Spanish and Argentinian federations were already reviewing the contract signed a few days ago and awaiting guidance from the insurance companies that usually support agreements of this nature. It is still early, but they are exploring alternative options in light of the increasingly complex situation. The agreement signed with Qatar to host the two matches was financially significant, yet security will remain the overriding priority.
Video shows the moment an Iranian missile struck a United States military base in Bahrain. The strike was part of Iran’s retaliation for Israel–US attacks across Iran. pic.twitter.com/MULyrU80zf
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) February 28, 2026
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