World football governing body FIFA has no intention of replacing Iran with Italy at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a controversial proposal from a US political envoy.
The suggestion was put forward by Paolo Zampolli, who claimed he had recommended the idea to both Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
“I confirm I have suggested that Italy replace Iran… it would be a dream,” Zampolli said, citing Italy’s pedigree as four-time world champions.
Despite the proposal, FIFA’s position remains firm.
Infantino had already made it clear in a recent statement:
“The Iranian team is coming, for sure.”
This effectively shuts down speculation that Iran could be excluded due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel.
Concerns around Iran’s participation stem from broader diplomatic tensions. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that no official restriction has been placed on Iranian players.
“The problem would not be the athletes, but some officials with possible ties to the IRGC,” Rubio explained.
Meanwhile, Iran’s embassy strongly rejected the proposal, describing it as politically motivated and inappropriate.
The idea has also been dismissed within Italy itself.
Despite their historic success, the Italy national football team failed to qualify for the tournament after a play-off defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina; marking a third consecutive World Cup absence.
Italian officials, including sports minister Andrea Abodi, were quick to criticise the suggestion.
“You qualify on the pitch. It is not appropriate,” he said.
Under FIFA regulations, the governing body technically has the authority to replace a team if one withdraws or is disqualified.
However, there is currently no indication that Iran will be excluded from the tournament, making any replacement scenario highly unlikely.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup; hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico is set to proceed with Iran included.
Iran are scheduled to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in the group stage.
