FIFA World Cup 2026
Iraq at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Overview
Iraq is a republic in the Fertile Crescent watered by the Tigris and Euphrates, often called the cradle of urban civilisation, Arabic‑ and Kurdish‑speaking regions, with Baghdad as its historic capital.
Iraq have never lifted the trophy, but their best run is as World Cup group-stage regulars (1986) across 1 World Cup appearance. At the World Cup, Ahmed Radhi features prominently in the scoring charts for Iraq with 1 goal. All-time, Hussein Saeed leads Iraq's senior men's scoring list with 78 goals.
At World Cup 2026, Iraq line up in Group I as AFC representatives from Asia. Group-stage fixtures against France, Senegal and Norway open a competitive first-round schedule.
Quick facts
- Capital
- Baghdad
- Continent
- Asia
- Federation
- AFC (Asia)
- Group
- I
- FIFA ranking (Nov 2025)
- #58
- World Cup titles
- 0
Geography
- Founded / established
- 1932
- Population
- 46,584,000
- Languages
- Arabic and Kurdish (official); minority languages recognised regionally
- Currency
- Iraqi dinar (IQD)
- Area
- 438,317 km²
- Highest point
- Cheekha Dar (3,611 m)
- Climate
- Hot desert and semi-arid with scorching summers
- Land borders
- Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey
Football facts
- Appearances
- 1
- Best result
- Group stage (1986)
- Top scorer
- Ahmed Radhi (1)
- Debut
- 1986
2026 World Cup kits
Home kit
Main color: white
World Cup history
1 World Cup appearances
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Qualified (2026) |
| 1986 | Group stage |
Frequently asked questions
- Has Iraq ever won the FIFA World Cup?
- No. Iraq have not won the men's World Cup; their best finish is World Cup group-stage regulars (1986).
- Which group is Iraq in at World Cup 2026?
- Iraq are in Group I. Group opponents include France, Senegal, Norway.
- What is the capital of Iraq?
- The capital city is Baghdad.
- Which FIFA confederation does Iraq belong to?
- Iraq compete under AFC (Asia).
- How many World Cups has Iraq played before 2026?
- Iraq had appeared in 1 FIFA World Cups prior to qualifying for 2026.
- Who is Iraq's all-time leading goal scorer?
- Hussein Saeed leads Iraq's senior men's national team with 78 goals in FIFA-recognised matches.