Iran could face possible Fifa tournament ban if they withdraw from World Cup

"Under Fifa statutes, member associations are not permitted to withdraw from competitions, and declining to take part in a World Cup would be unprecedented in the modern era. No country has pulled out of the tournament after the draw since France and India did not take part in 1950, citing travel costs."

"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."

"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."

Iran's football federation president cast doubt on the country's World Cup participation, but withdrawal would carry significant consequences under FIFA regulations. Member associations are prohibited from withdrawing from competitions, and no country has done so after the draw since 1950. FIFA imposes withdrawal fines ranging from $275,000 to $555,000 depending on timing, triggers disciplinary committee referrals, and requires reimbursement of all preparation funds. The disciplinary committee can impose additional sanctions including exclusion from future FIFA competitions. While Donald Trump stated indifference to Iran's participation, FIFA remains committed to the tournament proceeding with all qualified teams.

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