Iraq World Cup hopes hit by visa issues and coach stranded amid Iran conflict

• Airspace closures leave Graham Arnold stuck in UAE
• Players and staff unable to secure visas for Mexico playoff
• Iraq due to face Bolivia or Suriname on March 31

Iraq’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict involving Iran, with visa issues and travel restrictions affecting preparations for this month’s playoff in Mexico.

The Iraqi football federation confirmed on Wednesday that head coach Graham Arnold is currently unable to leave the United Arab Emirates because of regional airspace closures.

“Because of airspace closures, our head coach, Graham Arnold, is unable to leave the United Arab Emirates,” the federation said in a statement posted on Instagram.

It added that several embassies remain closed, preventing professional players as well as technical and medical staff from obtaining entry visas to Mexico.

Iraq are scheduled to face either Bolivia national football team or Suriname national football team in Monterrey on March 31 for one of the final two qualification places at the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The federation said it is in “constant communication” with FIFA regarding arrangements for the team’s participation, and that the Asian Football Confederation is fully aware of developments.

Iraq are seeking only their second appearance at a World Cup finals and first since 1986.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament following U.S. and Israeli strikes on the country. Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, has acknowledged that participation could be in doubt.

Should Iran national football team withdraw — a scenario that remains speculative — Iraq or the United Arab Emirates, ranked ninth and 10th among Asian qualifiers, could potentially be considered as replacements. FIFA’s regulations, however, leave significant discretion to its president, Gianni Infantino, in determining any course of action.

For now, Iraq’s clearest path remains victory in the playoff later this month.

Arnold, who previously led Australia national football team to the 2022 World Cup, stressed the importance of preparation in an interview with FIFA.com last month.

“I really can’t tell you who I think will win between Bolivia and Suriname but the most important thing is that we get things right with ourselves,” he said. “We have to make sure that our preparation is right and that the players are fit and ready.”