The United States has confirmed that Iran’s players will be welcome at the 2026 World Cup, distancing itself from suggestions that Italy could replace them in the tournament.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that no American authority had asked Iran’s team to stay away from the competition.
“No one from the US has told them they can’t come,” Rubio said, while speaking in Washington.
However, he indicated that restrictions could apply to certain members of Iran’s wider delegation. Individuals suspected of links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which is designated a terrorist organisation by Washington, may be denied entry.
“The issue is not the athletes, but some of the other people they may want to bring, some of whom could have ties to the IRGC,” Rubio added.
The comments come amid controversy over a proposal by Italian-born US envoy Paolo Zampolli, who suggested that Italy should replace Iran at the World Cup. He reportedly raised the idea with US President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Rubio dismissed the suggestion, stressing it does not reflect official US policy.
“I don’t know where that’s coming from, other than speculation that Iran may decide not to come,” he said.
The proposal has already been rejected by Italian authorities. Sports minister Andrea Abodi said reinstating Italy would be “not possible” and “not appropriate”, insisting qualification must be earned on the pitch.
This view was echoed by Luciano Buonfiglio, who said he would feel “offended” if Italy were granted entry without qualifying.
Italy, four-time World Cup winners, failed to reach the 2026 tournament after losing a qualification play-off to Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking their third consecutive absence.
Iran’s participation has been under scrutiny due to ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. Earlier in April, the Iranian football federation indicated it had held discussions with FIFA about potentially relocating matches from the US to Mexico.
Despite the uncertainty, Infantino has repeatedly stated that Iran will take part and will play matches as scheduled following the official draw.
The World Cup, set to begin on 11 June 2026, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
