Iraq coach requests FIFA delay World Cup playoff due to Middle East conflict
Graham Arnold seeks postponement of March 31 match in Mexico, citing airspace closures and travel disruptions affecting squad assembly.
March 9, 2026 at 01:55 PM
Graham Arnold, head coach of Iraq's national soccer team, has formally requested that FIFA postpone the nation's World Cup playoff match scheduled for March 31 in Monterrey, Mexico, citing travel disruptions stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Iraq is set to face the winner of the Bolivia versus Suriname playoff, with the victor claiming one of the final two spots at this summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Bolivia-Suriname match is scheduled for March 26 at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, with Iraq's playoff game at the same venue five days later.
Iraqi airspace has been closed since February 28 following military strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, which borders Iraq. Iran subsequently responded with missile and drone attacks directed at Israel, Gulf states and nearby countries. The Transport Ministry of Iraq informed the Iraqi football association that the country's airspace will remain closed for the duration of the conflict.
The closure has created significant logistical challenges for team assembly. Approximately half of Iraq's squad remains in Baghdad and unable to travel. Arnold, an Australian who became Iraq manager in May 2025, is currently stuck in the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, several staff members and players have been unable to secure visas for Mexico as embassies remain closed.
FIFA has proposed that Iraq's players undertake a 25-hour road journey from Baghdad to Istanbul, Turkey, before flying to Mexico to fulfill the fixture. Arnold rejected this proposal. According to reports, the Australian coach indicated he would not accept the arrangement, citing concerns about the viability of assembling a competitive team under such circumstances.
Arnold stated that relying solely on players based outside Iraq would hinder the country's chances of qualifying for their first World Cup since 1986. The formal request for postponement has been submitted to FIFA as the governing body considers how to address the scheduling conflict created by the regional military escalation.