23.4.2026
World football governing body FIFA said Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, brushing off suggestions Italy should take their place following the on-going conflict in the Middle East.
Iran and hosts USA are currently in a war situation, which has dragged on for over a month. Iran will play their group games against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles June 15 and 21 June respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
The Iranians have suggested to FIFA to switch their games to either Canada or Mexico who are co-hosts of the World Cup, but there has been no response.
On Wednesday US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Paolo Zampolli interview with the Financial Times, said Italy could replace the Iranians in the tournament.
“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,”
But FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran will participate in the World Cup.
“We hope that by the time of the tournament the situation will be a peaceful (one). That would definitely help,” said Infantino.
“But Iran has to come if they are to represent their people. They have qualified, and they’re actually quite a good team as well. They really want to play, and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics.”
Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for their third successive World Cup following a qualification play-off defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.
Under Fifa rules, the world governing body has “sole discretion” on what happens if a team withdraws or is excluded from the competition.
Article six of its World Cup regulations also says: “Fifa may decide to replace the Participating Member Association in question with another association.” Agency reports