TUncertainty surrounding Iraq’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Intercontinental Playoffs appears to be starting to resolve. The Asian Football Confederation has warned in recent days that it is facing serious difficulties in traveling to Mexico for the match.
This was due to the closure of their own airspace during the Middle East conflict and problems with visa processing. The situation led the Iraqi federation to request FIFA to consider changing the venue in Monterrey or postponing the match.
Lamine Yamal seems to be more focused ahead of the big match against Barcelona vs. Newcastle
However, with the intervention of Mexican authorities, things began to change. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) said it is facilitating entry procedures for players, coaching staff and staff of the Iraqi national team.
SRE supports Iraq national team staff
In a statement, the Foreign Affairs Secretariat explained that relevant documents have already been delivered to some Iraqi soccer players so that they can enter Iraq and travel to Mexico.
“Since learning of the visa application, the Embassy of Mexico in the United Arab Emirates has been in contact with Iraq Football Federation board member and team coach Graham Arnold,” the statement begins.
“Similarly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained contact with FIFA and the Mexican Football Federation authorities to support the coaching staff of the Iraq national team.”
They noted that “Iraqi’s airspace remains closed due to the Middle East conflict,” which is why Mexican authorities intervened.
“On March 8, some players were documented at the Mexican embassy in Saudi Arabia, and documentation of others is planned at the embassy in Qatar tomorrow (Tuesday),” the SRE statement continued.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates its intention to continue to facilitate the acquisition of documents that team players and coaches may require in the future, in accordance with applicable regulations,” the agency said.
How will the 2026 World Cup playoffs be played?
The intercontinental playoffs will be held from March 26th to 31st at Guadalajara Stadium and Monterrey Stadium. Each venue will host two matches and award two tickets to the 2026 World Cup.
guadalajara stadium
New Caledonia vs. Jamaica: March 26th vs. Democratic Republic of the Congo First match winner: March 31st
monterrey stadium
Bolivia vs. Suriname: March 26th Iraq vs. Game 1 Winner: March 31st
