Italy reject suggestion to replace Iran at 2026 World Cup

Italian officials firmly dismissed the idea of replacing Iran, insisting qualification must be earned on the pitch
Proposal emerged as a contingency plan amid geopolitical tensions, but FIFA maintains Iran will participate
Iran continues preparations for the tournament, with group-stage matches scheduled in the United States

Italian sports authorities have rejected suggestions that Italy could replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup, following comments from a U.S. official proposing the idea as a contingency plan.

Iran has not withdrawn from the tournament and is continuing preparations to compete in the United States this summer. FIFA has consistently stated that Iran’s group-stage fixtures, scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle, will proceed as planned.

The proposal came from U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli, who said he raised the possibility with Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Zampolli described the idea as a non-political contingency in case Iran was unable to participate at short notice.

However, Italian officials responded with strong opposition.

Sports Minister Andrea Abodi said the idea was both “not possible” and “not appropriate,” emphasizing that World Cup qualification must be earned through results on the field. Italian Olympic Committee president Luciano Buonfiglio echoed that stance, stating that participation in the tournament must be deserved.

Italy’s Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti went further, labeling the suggestion “shameful.”

Italy, a four-time World Cup winner, failed to qualify for the tournament for a third consecutive time. Meanwhile, Iran secured its place through the Asian Football Confederation’s qualification process and remains scheduled to play three group matches in the United States, beginning against New Zealand on June 15.

FIFA has declined to comment on the proposal but has reiterated in recent weeks that Iran will take part in the tournament. President Gianni Infantino recently stated that Iran would “for sure” compete, reinforcing the governing body’s position.

The Iranian embassy in Rome also criticized the suggestion, stating that football should remain separate from political influence and that participation should be determined by sporting merit.

Uncertainty around Iran’s participation has persisted since geopolitical tensions escalated earlier this year. Despite that, Iranian officials have confirmed the team is preparing for a “proud and successful participation” in the competition.

Under FIFA regulations, a replacement team could theoretically be selected if a qualified nation withdraws. However, no such scenario has materialized, and there are no current indications that Iran will be unable to compete.

The 2026 World Cup is set to begin in June across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.