Asian coach stuck ahead of World Cup 2026 playoffs

Iraq's hopes of securing a World Cup spot are severely impacted as many players cannot obtain visas for the playoff in Mexico, while the head coach is stranded in the UAE.

The Iraqi Football Federation stated in an Instagram post on Wednesday: “Due to airspace closures, our head coach, Graham Arnold, is currently unable to leave the UAE. Additionally, many embassies remain closed, preventing several professional players, coaching staff, and medical team members from obtaining entry visas to Mexico.”

The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Wednesday that the visa difficulties stem from Mexico not having an embassy in Iraq. However, the Mexican Embassy in the UAE has contacted the Iraqi Football Federation to address the issue.

The statement also noted that visas could be issued in any European country, and Mexico has requested the Iraqi Football Federation to provide a list of individuals traveling to Mexico to expedite the visa process.

The Iraqi team is scheduled to face Bolivia or Suriname in Monterrey on March 31, competing for one of the final two spots in the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Iraqi Football Federation stated they are “in constant communication with FIFA regarding arrangements for the national team to participate in the match.” Meanwhile, the Asian Football Confederation is also “fully aware of all developments concerning the team's situation.”

Iraq aims for their second-ever World Cup finals appearance and their first since the 1986 FIFA World Cup. If they fail to qualify through the playoff, Iraq might still have another route if Iran decides to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup.

Iran's top football official, Mehdi Taj, stated: “We cannot be expected to approach the World Cup with optimism.” If Iran withdraws, though this remains highly speculative, Iraq or the UAE would likely be chosen as replacements, being the 9th and 10th-ranked Asian teams in the qualifiers.

However, FIFA's regulations are somewhat vague and appear to grant President Gianni Infantino broad authority in making the final decision. Nevertheless, Iraq's surest hope remains winning the playoff later this month.

Coach Graham Arnold, who led Australia to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, said last month that thorough preparation will be crucial. He told FIFA: “I really cannot predict who will win between Bolivia and Suriname, but the most important thing is that we focus on our own tasks. We must ensure our preparation is on track and our players are in peak condition, ready for the match.”