How would FIFA replace Iran if it drops out of World Cup amid U.S. attack?

Over the weekend, the United States and Israel conducted joint attacks on Iran that resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The sports world is already seeing the potential impact of that bombardment campaign.

On Sunday, Iran's soccer federation expressed doubt that the team would participate in the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada and Mexico over the summer. Iran — which qualified out of the Asian Football Confederation — was placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand for the summer's tournament.

Speaking to Iranian sports outlet Varzesh3, Iran's soccer federation president Mehdi Taj said via ESPN, "What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope." 

So, if Iran were to actually drop out of the World Cup (and be the only nation to do so), it begs the question:

How would FIFA replace Iran so late in the process?

FIFA's rulebook does leave some room for interpretation, but the likely replacement would be the United Arab Emirates. FIFA says a late replacement team should be a "nominated alternate, often the direct runner-up from the relevant qualifying playoff or highest-ranked non-qualified team from that confederation".

By that criteria, the UAE (ranked No. 72 by FIFA) would be in line to take Iran's spot as the highest-ranked non-qualifier out of AFC.

As of now, FIFA has not clarified what it would do. The soccer governing body said it is currently "monitoring the developments." So, don't expect a quick resolution when it comes to FIFA.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: How would FIFA replace Iran if it drops out of World Cup?