World football governing body FIFA has ruled out any plan to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reaffirming that the Iranian national team will participate in the tournament.
The competition, scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has faced uncertainty surrounding Iran’s involvement due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and Israel.
Speculation intensified after Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy linked to U.S. President Donald Trump, suggested that Italy be drafted in as a replacement for Iran. Zampolli argued that Italy’s football pedigree, including four World Cup titles, justified their inclusion.
However, FIFA has made it clear there will be no such change. While the body did not directly address Zampolli’s proposal, it reiterated comments by its president, Gianni Infantino, who recently confirmed Iran’s participation, stating: “The Iranian team is coming, for sure.”
The suggestion drew sharp criticism from Iranian officials, with the country’s embassy condemning the idea as politically motivated. In a strongly worded response, it said Italy’s football success was earned “on the pitch, not through political privileges,” describing the proposal as a sign of “moral bankruptcy.”
Reports indicate the proposal may have been part of broader diplomatic considerations, including efforts to ease tensions between the U.S. and Italy following remarks by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni concerning Trump’s comments about Pope Leo XIV.
Meanwhile, Italy’s absence from the tournament follows another disappointing qualification campaign, with the four-time champions missing out on a third consecutive World Cup after a play-off defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Iran, on the other hand, is expected to proceed with its scheduled group matches, including fixtures against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, as well as Egypt in Seattle.
The 2026 World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, with FIFA maintaining that it retains sole authority over any decisions regarding team participation or replacement.
