Italy says it will not replace Iran at 2026 World Cup

Italian sports officials rejected the idea that Italy could take Iran’s place at the 2026 World Cup, saying qualification must be earned on the pitch. Italy’s sports minister Andrea Abodi called the suggestion inappropriate, while Italian Olympic Committee president Luciano Buonfiglio said such a move would be offensive. 

The debate followed a proposal by Paolo Zampolli, a U.S. special envoy and ally of President Donald Trump, who suggested Italy could replace Iran if Tehran did not take part in the tournament. Italian officials pushed back immediately, and FIFA has continued to treat Iran as a qualified participant. 

Iran remains in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with matches scheduled in Los Angeles, Seattle and Vancouver. FIFA’s published match schedule continues to list Iran in the group. 

AP and Reuters reported that if Iran were to withdraw, Italy would not be the natural replacement. Under the tournament structure, the United Arab Emirates would be more likely to move into the field as the next team in line from Asian qualifying.