FIFA rejects proposal to replace Iran with Italy for 2026 World Cup: Here’s why

FIFA has officially announced that there are no plans to replace Iran with Italy at this summer’s World Cup, following a significant shift proposed by US president Donald Trump’s special envoy. Given the gravity of the situation, there has been a state of unpredictability regarding Iran’s participation in the tournament due to the conflict with the US and Israel.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the Financial Times, external: “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup.”

“I'm an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”

Meanwhile Fifa did not comment on Zampolli’s suggestion, but it underscored a statement released by Fifa President Gianni Infantino last week where he said: “The Iranian team is coming, for sure.”

According to the Financial Times, Zampolli’s plan was designed to maintain flexibility between the US and Italy after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized Trump over his comments toward Pope Leo XIV.

Iran is due to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, respectively. Under Fifa rules, the world’s governing body has “sole discretion” over the final decision.

According to Article 6 of the World Cup regulations, FIFA holds the power to replace a participating member association with another at its discretion. 

FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed hope for a peaceful situation by the tournament start, underscoring that sports should remain separate from politics and that Iran has qualified with a strong team that deserves to play. 

Iranian government spokesperson Fatameh Mohajerani stated that the country is “fully prepared” to participate contradicting earlier reports from March where the country cited safety concerns following airstrikes in the previous month. 

Paolo Zampolli, a former UN ambassador, has formally requested FIFA to consider replacing Iran, echoing a similar request he made during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. 

President Trump indicated that while Iran is technically welcome, he expressed skepticism about their involvement regarding their own safety and well-being.