FIFA reportedly has no plans to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup, despite a proposal linked to a US presidential envoy, according to sources.
The suggestion came from US special envoy Paolo Zampolli, who told the Financial Times that he had raised the idea with US President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Zampolli argued that Italy’s inclusion would be fitting, describing it as a “dream” to see the four-time champions compete, given their pedigree and global appeal.
However, FIFA has not endorsed the idea. Instead, it pointed to Infantino’s recent remarks in which he confirmed: “The Iranian team is coming, for sure.”
Italy, ranked 12th in the world by FIFA, are the highest-ranked nation not to qualify for the tournament. They failed to reach the World Cup for a third consecutive time after losing a qualification play-off against Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.
Iran are currently scheduled to participate in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico. Their group fixtures include matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15 and 21 June 2026, and against Egypt in Seattle on 26 June 2026.
Under FIFA regulations, the governing body retains full discretion over replacements if a team withdraws or is excluded, but no indication has been given that such a decision is being considered in this case.
Infantino has previously stressed that Iran should participate, stating that sport must remain separate from politics and expressing hope that the situation would be peaceful by the time of the tournament.
Concerns over Iran’s participation had emerged amid regional tensions involving the United States and Israel. Earlier reports suggested Iran had considered relocation of its fixtures, though FIFA confirmed their matches would remain as scheduled in the United States.
Iranian officials have since said the team is fully prepared to take part in the competition.
Zampolli had also previously proposed similar ideas ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, though none were acted upon.
