FIFA imposes a number of sanctions on countries that refuse to participate in the World Cup (Image: Getty)
Everything you need to know about Iran’s threat to boycott the World Cup and the sanctions it could face if it refuses to play in this summer’s tournament
A unilateral withdrawal before the tournament will result in an automatic fine ranging from 275,000 euros (£238,000) to 555,000 euros, depending on the exact timing of the withdrawal.
Iran will have to repay FIFA all the funds it has already received for the preparation of its team, as well as any other competition-related donations provided by the governing body.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee has the power to impose “sporting sanctions”, which include, among other things, the possibility of excluding the Iranian association from future FIFA competitions.
The sending off will automatically be referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which will assess the “seriousness of the offense” and the timing of the sending off to decide on further punishment.
FIFA rules strictly prohibit member associations from withdrawing. It was the first time in modern times that a draw was drawn after a tournament draw (the last one was in 1950).
Under the regulations, FIFA retains “sole discretion” to take any measures it deems necessary to address vacancies, including the decision to replace the withdrawing country with another country.
If swapped with Iran, Iraq would now be in “first place” as the next highest ranked team in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifying tournament, according to sources.
If Iraq fails to qualify (due to ongoing qualification issues or regional disputes), their spot could go to the next highest-placed Asian player, the UAE, who has not yet reached the finals.
Iran appeared to confirm its intention to boycott this summer’s tournament, with the country’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamal saying on Wednesday: “We have no conditions to participate in the World Cup because this corrupt government assassinated our leader.”
