FIFA make final decision on Iran’s World Cup place after calls for Italy swap

April 24, 2026 Oliver Obel

FIFA has made clear that Iran will take part in the 2026 World Cup, shutting down speculation that the team could be replaced amid political tensions.

The issue had drawn attention in recent months as relations between Iran and the United States — one of the tournament’s host nations — remained strained. Former US president Donald Trump previously suggested Iran should not attend “for their own life and safety,” raising further questions about the team’s participation.

Despite that backdrop, FIFA’s position now appears firm.

Italy proposal gains attention but little support

In March, Iranian officials indicated the country might withdraw from the tournament due to security concerns linked to US and Israeli air strikes. That uncertainty led to outside suggestions that a replacement team could be considered.

According to the Financial Times, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli urged both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino to allow Italy to take Iran’s place. He said: “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.”

However, such a move would be highly unusual. FIFA rules do not provide for replacing a team that has already qualified and been drawn into the tournament, except under extraordinary circumstances.

The BBC reported that FIFA has no plans to remove Iran or invite Italy, who failed to qualify after losing to Bosnia in the play-offs.

Infantino reiterates FIFA stance

Infantino reinforced that position last week, stating: “The Iranian team is coming, for sure.” While FIFA has not issued a separate formal statement, it has pointed to those remarks as reflecting its current stance.

Iran have been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, with matches scheduled across multiple host countries in North America.

Iran weighs final decision

The BBC also reported that Iran requested its group-stage matches be moved to Mexico, but FIFA rejected that proposal, citing logistical challenges.

Iran’s Sports and Youth Minister Ahmad Donyamali said this week that a final decision on participation has not been ruled out entirely. He said: “Today we also have a meeting within the framework of this discussion, and we are fulfilling our legal duty.

“We must be prepared. In any case, it might be decided not to go. And if it is decided to go, we should be prepared anyway, so that our presence, if it is to be, is a strong presence. But again, I emphasise that, in this area, decision-making is based on the conditions that exist today, with the government and probably the National Security Council.”

Tournament details

Iran secured qualification by finishing top of Group A in Asian qualifying. The 2026 World Cup is set to begin on June 11, when Mexico face South Africa in the opening match.

Sources: BBC, Financial Times, FIFA