Iraq coach Graham Arnold calls for FIFA World Cup playoff postponement amid Middle East travel disruption

Graham Arnold has urged football’s global governing body FIFA to postpone Iraq’s upcoming inter-continental World Cup playoff due to the travel chaos caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Iraq are scheduled to face either Bolivia or Suriname in Monterrey on March 31 for a place at the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, Iraqi officials fear the team may struggle to travel because regional airspace closures have disrupted flights across the Middle East.

The Iraqi football federation is worried that many players and staff may not be able to leave the country in time for the crucial match. Iraqi airspace has been closed since late February due to tensions in the Middle East. Arnold believes that if Iraq are forced to select a squad made only from players based outside the country, it would significantly weaken the team’s chances of qualifying for their first World Cup appearance since 1986.

Iraq seek delay for the crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Iraq’s national team faces a critical moment in its World Cup journey. The side secured its place in the inter-continental playoff after defeating the United Arab Emirates 3-2 on aggregate in the fifth round of Asian qualifiers. The winner of the playoff will earn a spot at the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.



Arnold explained to AAP that Iraq must have its strongest squad available for such a historic match. He said the team cannot afford to be weakened because of travel restrictions and logistical problems. According to the coach, football holds immense importance for Iraqi supporters, and the country has waited four decades for another chance to reach the World Cup. That dream, he suggested, was a major reason he accepted the role of national team manager.

However, he admitted the current situation has created major uncertainty. With airports closed and flights disrupted, the coaching staff are exploring alternative travel plans to ensure the team can reach Mexico.

Arnold also suggested a possible solution to FIFA. He proposed that Bolivia and Suriname should play their semifinal playoff match as scheduled on March 26. The winner could then face Iraq closer to the World Cup in the United States, allowing Iraq more time to prepare and resolve travel issues.

Meanwhile, Iraqi football federation president Adnan Dirjal is reportedly working tirelessly to organise logistics and ensure the team can compete. Arnold stressed that a quick decision from FIFA would help Iraq properly plan for what he described as the country’s most important football match in decades.