A senior US envoy close to President Donald Trump has proposed that FIFA remove Iran from the 2026 World Cup and award their spot to Italy amid escalating tensions from the ongoing conflict.
Conflict Clouds Iran’s Participation
Following a joint US-Israel military action against Iran in February, war has erupted, casting serious doubt on Iran’s involvement in the tournament co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Claims surfaced that Iran’s soccer federation might boycott the event, but recent discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino have eased those concerns. Infantino pledged support to help the team prepare over the next two months, as most Iranian players compete in the domestic league, now suspended due to the war.
Envoy’s Bold Proposal for Italy
US special envoy Paolo Zampolli, a Milan native, has recommended to both Infantino and Trump that Italy take Iran’s place. He argues that Italy’s record as four-time World Cup champions merits their inclusion, even though they failed to qualify through UEFA. This suggestion aligns with efforts to mend ties between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after a rift over Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV concerning the Iran conflict.
‘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,’ Zampolli stated.
Responses from Iran and FIFA
Iran’s soccer federation affirmed its commitment to compete in a recent statement. Infantino, speaking at a Washington conference last week, emphasized Iran’s necessity to participate: ‘The Iranian team is coming, for sure. We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful one. That would definitely help. But Iran has to come if they are to represent their people. They have qualified… They really want to play, and they should play.’
Iran earned its spot as one of eight teams from the Asian Football Confederation, while Italy missed out on Europe’s 16 slots for the third straight tournament—a major setback for the 2021 European champions.
FIFA’s Authority to Act
FIFA regulations grant the organization sole discretion to replace a team if it withdraws. The rules state: ‘FIFA may decide to replace the Participating Member Association in question with another association.’ FIFA previously exercised this power by awarding a spot at last year’s Club World Cup to Inter Miami, allowing Lionel Messi to compete despite lacking recent qualifications.
Tournament Schedule
The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, culminating in the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Iran faces New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26 in group play.
