Iran face huge prize money loss if they boycott 2026 FIFA World Cup

Iran are facing a huge loss in prize money if they decide to boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The United States and Israel launched a 'major combat operation' on Iran in the early hours of Saturday after talks over the Gulf nation's nuclear programme stalled.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed in an airstrike on his office in Tehran on Saturday evening.

Iran subsequently launched retaliatory attacks on US and Israel military bases across the West Region of the Middle East.

The attacks - many of which have been intercepted - have caused airspace closures across the region, with many people left stranded as a result.

Strikes have continued in the Iranian capital of Tehran and other parts of the country, with over 700 civilians confirmed to have been killed at the time of writing.

In three months' time, Iran are due to travel to the United States for the 2026 World Cup, which is also being co-hosted by Canada and Mexico.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino could play a key role in deciding any punishment for Iran (Image: Getty)

Amir Ghalenoei's side have been drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.

In the event that Iran pull out, or a decision is taken that they cannot compete, FIFA's regulations state that they will be replaced 'with a nominated alternate, often the direct runner-up from the relevant qualifying playoff or highest-ranked non-qualified team from that confederation'.

That would mean either United Arab Emirates or Iraq would likely be awarded the qualification place, with Iraq having defeated the UAE to reach the inter-confederation play-offs.

However, Iraq contest their inter-confederation play-off in Mexico on March 31, giving FIFA a potential headache when it comes to timeframes.

Iran have been drawn into Group G (Image: Getty)

FIFA's own regulations on withdrawals state that world football's governing body 'shall decide on the matter at its sole discretion and take whatever action is deemed necessary'.

As per Associated Press, Iran pulling out of the World Cup would force them to forfeit at least $10.5 million in prize money - the $9 million prize money paid to those who do not progress through the group stages, and $1.5 million to cover what are described as 'preparation costs'.

A total fine of $321,000 could be implemented if Iran withdraw under 30 days before the start of the tournament, which is doubled to $642,000 if that decision is made over 30 days before the start of the tournament.