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Iran could face possible Fifa tournament ban if they withdraw from World Cup
(www.theguardian.com)
FIFA hasn’t officially commented, but “sources have indicated” coming from the Guardian seems like FIFA is serious about punishing Iran should they withdraw.
Fifa has protections in its tournament rules, which sources have indicated would be upheld. The regulations state that withdrawing before the tournament incurs a fine of between €275,000 (£238,000) and €555,000, depending on the date of the withdrawal, and triggers a referral to Fifa’s disciplinary committee, which could impose sporting sanctions.
“Participating associations that withdraw at any stage of the Fifa World Cup 2026 shall be required to reimburse all funds received from Fifa for the preparation of their national team, as well as any competition-related contributions received from Fifa,” the regulations state.
“The Fifa disciplinary committee may impose additional disciplinary measures, taking into account in particular the timing of the withdrawal or exclusion, the seriousness of the infringement that led to the inadmission or exclusion, possible mitigating factors and any other relevant circumstances.
“These disciplinary sanctions may include the exclusion of the association concerned from a future Fifa competition or the replacement of that association by another.”