Iraq returns to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1986, earning one of the most remarkable qualifying stories of the 2026 cycle. The Lions of Mesopotamia have been drawn into Group I alongside France, Norway, and Senegal — a steep challenge that Iraq will embrace on the world stage.
2026 Iraq World Cup Schedule
Iraq’s group stage games take them from New England to Philadelphia and up to Toronto. All times are Eastern.
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | Opponent | Venue | TV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group I – Game 1 | Tue, Jun 16 | 6:00 PM | vs. Norway | Gillette Stadium – Foxborough, MA | FS1 |
| Group I – Game 2 | Mon, Jun 22 | 5:00 PM | vs. France | Lincoln Financial Field – Philadelphia, PA | FS1 |
| Group I – Game 3 | Fri, Jun 26 | 3:00 PM | vs. Senegal | BMO Field – Toronto, ON | FS1 |
Iraq 2026 World Cup Schedule PDF & Printable
Download the free printable 2026 Iraq World Cup schedule PDF below. It includes all three group stage games plus knockout round placeholders through the Final on July 19.
About Iraq at the 2026 World Cup
Iraq last appeared at the World Cup in Mexico 1986, making their 2026 qualification a 40-year gap — one of the longest returns in tournament history. The team qualified through the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) amid fierce competition, making their presence in Group I a genuine achievement for Iraqi football.
Facing Norway in their opener gives Iraq a fighting chance for an upset right out of the gate. The match against France in Philadelphia will be their toughest test, while the finale against Senegal in Toronto could determine whether Iraq earns a historic knockout round berth.
Iraq Knockout Round Schedule
Knockout round matchups will be determined after group stage play concludes. Iraq must finish in the top two of Group I — or qualify as one of the best third-place finishers — to advance. We’ll update this table with opponents, times, and venues as they are confirmed.
| Stage | Date | Time (ET) | Opponent | Venue | TV / Stream |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round of 32 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Round of 16 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Quarterfinal | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Semifinal | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Final | Jul 19 | TBD | TBD | MetLife Stadium – East Rutherford, NJ | TBD |
Want the full picture? Check out our complete 2026 World Cup schedule covering all 48 teams and every group stage match.
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2026 World Cup Resources & Hub
Stay updated with everything happening across the tournament. Check out our specialized guides:
- 2026 World Cup Portal Hub: Every team, every group, one page.
- Printable 2026 World Cup Bracket: The full 48-team master bracket.
- Printable 2026 World Cup Brackets Groups Filled In: The 48-team bracket with all groups filled in.
- Ink Saver 2026 World Cup Bracket: Black & white low-ink printable designs.
- Bracket Maker Utility: Build your own custom bracket.
Iraq 2026 World Cup FAQ
What group is Iraq in at the 2026 World Cup?
Iraq is in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
When does Iraq play their first game at the 2026 World Cup?
Iraq opens the tournament on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET against Norway at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA.
Where does Iraq play at the 2026 World Cup?
Iraq plays at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA (June 16), Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA (June 22), and BMO Field in Toronto, ON (June 26).
Who are Iraq’s opponents in Group I at the 2026 World Cup?
Iraq faces Norway on June 16, France on June 22, and Senegal on June 26 in Group I group stage play.
Can I download a printable Iraq 2026 World Cup schedule?
Yes! A free printable PDF of Iraq’s complete 2026 World Cup schedule is available above, including all group stage kickoff times, venues, and knockout round placeholders.
Watch every 2026 FIFA World Cup match live on Fox Sports.
