ICC rolls out contingency plans for T20 World Cup 2026 amidst Iran-US War

On February 28, 2026, the ICC issued an official statement confirming the activation of contingency plans to safeguard the travel, logistics, and well-being of all stakeholders involved in the ongoing T20 World Cup. While the governing body emphasized that current tensions in the Middle East, which saw US and Israel launching air strikes on Iran, have no direct impact on the conduct of the tournament in India and Sri Lanka, they have proactively mobilised security and logistics teams to address any potential ripples in global transit.

ICC's contingency plans for T20 World Cup amidst Middle East tensions 

The primary focus of these measures is to minimize disruption for personnel, including players, match officials, and broadcast crews—who rely on major Gulf transit hubs to reach their next destinations. The ICC specifically identified Dubai International Airport as a critical junction for tournament participants. By monitoring the evolving situation closely, the ICC aims to ensure that those finishing their duties can travel onward without significant delays.

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Despite the geopolitical climate, the ICC reassured fans and participants that the World Cup remains fully on track in the host nations. However, they acknowledged that outbound travel schedules may require adjustments if regional conditions begin to interfere with standard air routes through the Gulf. This move serves as a protective measure to ensure the safety and seamless movement of the international cricket community during the final stages of the event.

An ICC spokesperson emphasised that the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the T20 World Cup remains the organization's top priority. Dedicated teams are working around the clock to ensure that players, officials, and staff can return home safely with minimal disruption. Additionally, the ICC has reached out to fans, urging those who have traveled or are planning to travel for the tournament to stay informed by monitoring official advisories and carefully considering all logistical factors before finalizing their international travel plans.

To manage potential travel hurdles, the ICC's travel and logistics unit is collaborating with major international carriers to secure alternative routing options. These contingency paths include connecting through hubs in Europe, South Asia, and Southeast Asia to bypass affected regions. Furthermore, security consultants are in constant communication with relevant authorities to provide real-time updates as the situation evolves, supported by the activation of a dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk to assist stakeholders directly.

The governing body concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the smooth and safe conclusion of the 2026 tournament. The ICC intends to provide further updates as necessary to keep all participants informed. This formal guidance was officially published on February 28, 2026, within the Media Releases section of the ICC’s website, serving as the definitive resource for tournament logistics during this period.