FIFA's Response Following US-Israel Military Attack on Iran
A major military attack was conducted by United States and American forces against multiple targets in Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026 local time. In response, Iran launched a counter-strike targeting American military bases. This escalating military conflict has drawn considerable international attention, including from world football’s governing body, FIFA.
The US-Israeli military action occurs several months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup is held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These three nations automatically qualified as host countries.
The Iranian national team has secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup final tournament after topping Group A in the Asian qualification stage. Team Melli represents one of the stronger delegations from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). By contrast, Israel failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom addressed the matter during a meeting of the International Football Association Board Council in Cardiff, Wales.
Grafstrom emphasised that FIFA could not yet provide detailed explanations. “We will monitor developments regarding all issues across the world,” Grafstrom stated, as reported by Yahoo! Sports on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
“We conducted the final tournament draw in Washington where all teams participated, and our focus is on a safe World Cup with all teams taking part.”
“We will continue communicating as usual with the three host governments as we always do in any circumstance. Everyone will be safe,” he explained.
Several countries have been placed under a comprehensive travel ban category for both immigrants and non-immigrants. However, the policy provides exemptions for “athletes, coaches, support staff, and close relatives travelling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting events”.
FIFA has also introduced a special visa programme called FIFA PASS for international supporters. Citizens from countries affected by the travel restrictions may still apply for FIFA PASS. However, the special visa does not override existing travel bans.