The Iraqi Football Association explains to Okaz the latest developments in the national team's travel crisis
Iraqi Football Association member Kovand Abdul-Khaliq revealed the latest developments in the crisis facing the Iraqi national team regarding travel to Mexico to play the World Cup 2026 qualifying playoff match scheduled for March 31, in light of the closure of airspace due to current regional events.
Iraq awaits the winner of the Bolivia-Suriname match in the World Cup qualifying playoff, to face them for a qualifying spot.
Ongoing communication with FIFA
Kovand Abdul Khaliq told Okaz in an exclusive statement: “We are in constant contact with FIFA regarding the travel crisis, because the crisis is not only at the level of Iraq but includes the region. We did not request a postponement, and we hope to find a solution in the coming period.”.
He added: “So far, the date for travel to Mexico has not been determined, but if travel becomes impossible, this will be due to force majeure, which is beyond our control, and FIFA will have to decide according to the regulations, whether to postpone the match or change its location, but our role now is to complete the entry procedures to Mexico.”.
Alternative travel options
He added: “The travel date has not yet been determined, and the journey will be by land to Jordan or Türkiye, then the trip will be completed by air, given the aviation crisis in the region.”.
Iraq's stance on the possibility of Iran's withdrawal
Regarding Iran’s threat to withdraw from the World Cup and the possibility of Iraq participating directly instead of going through the playoffs, he replied: “We in the Iraqi Football Association do not wish for any team to withdraw from the World Cup, because the World Cup is the biggest football event and everyone looks forward to participating in it. The Iraqi Federation does not interfere in such decisions because they are subject exclusively to FIFA regulations and systems.”.
He concluded by saying: “We are always keen to set an example in respecting and implementing international instructions, and we have full confidence in the fairness and transparency of FIFA in dealing with such cases. Should any development occur, we are certain that FIFA will fully implement the regulations in a way that ensures fairness and preserves the rights of all member associations.”.
