What is FIFA’s response to the proposal to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup?

The proposal to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup finals has sparked widespread controversy, following media reports linking the idea to military developments in the region since late February, against the backdrop of escalating tensions between the United States and Israel against Tehran.

According to the Financial Times, Paolo Zampoli, a close associate of US President Donald Trump, has put forward to FIFA the idea of granting Italy Iran’s place in the tournament — to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico — should the Iranian team be unable to participate due to the security situation.

Zamboli explained, according to the same source, that he had discussed this proposal with Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, expressing his desire to see the Azzurri at the World Cup and pointing out that Italy’s illustrious record of titles gives it the technical merit to participate.

In contrast, the BBC quoted sources within FIFA as confirming that there is no intention to consider this proposal, emphasising the federation’s commitment to Infantino’s recent statements in which he confirmed that Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup remains in place, and that there is no intention to replace them.

The suggestion of Italy as a potential replacement, despite its failure to qualify following a penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the intercontinental play-offs, comes as the country is set to miss out on the World Cup for the third consecutive time, despite its high ranking among the non-qualifying teams.

Featured image via the Canary