FIFA has dismissed speculation about replacing Iran with Italy in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel.
According to a report by international media, FIFA officials have made it clear that there is no plan to alter Iran’s participation in the upcoming global tournament.
The speculation emerged after Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy linked to the US administration, reportedly suggested that Italy be considered as a replacement for Iran under current circumstances. However, the proposal was firmly rejected by football’s world governing body.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently reaffirmed that Iran will “certainly” take part in the tournament, putting an end to uncertainty surrounding the team’s status.
Meanwhile, the Iranian embassy strongly criticised the suggestion, terming it an example of “moral bankruptcy” on the part of the United States.
Italian authorities have also distanced themselves from the proposal. Italy’s sports officials emphasised that World Cup qualification is strictly determined by on-field performance, not political considerations.
It is worth noting that four-time world champions Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, further reinforcing FIFA’s stance against any administrative inclusion.