Will Iraq win the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Not since since 1986 has Iraq seen the chance to win the World Cup. They've come through a brutal path — beating UAE over two legs in the AFC fifth round and then knocking out Bolivia 2–1 in the inter‑confederation playoff in Monterrey to claim the 48th and final spot. They land in Group I with France, Senegal, and Norway, which is about as unforgiving as it gets for a returning side, but it also means every game will be played under a bright spotlight. The broader market still treats Iraq as a feel‑good story rather than a realistic champion. Could the upset some other teams? Sure thing. Does it mean they'll "go all the way"? We'll see! This is only their second World Cup ever, they qualified via the very last playoff, and most previews talk about “ending a 40‑year exile” and “what would count as success” in terms of points or making the knockouts, not holding the trophy. That’s why when a whale takes a stand on Iraq we pay attention.