Zurich, Switzerland – FIFA has confirmed its rejection of any proposals to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup, in an indirect response to recent discussions
about politically motivated scenarios concerning the tournament’s participating teams.
FIFA clarified that World Cup participation decisions are based solely on sporting criteria
and official qualifying rounds, and not on any political considerations.
It also emphasized that the tournament’s established system does not allow
for changes to qualified teams or their exclusion outside of the established regulations.
International rejection of the replacement
The stance came after media reports discussed attempts to explore the possibility of excluding Iran
from the tournament and giving Italy a chance, despite their failure to qualify through the qualifiers.
Press sources confirmed that these proposals were met with no acceptance within FIFA.
Furthermore, the federation maintains its commitment to the principle of equal opportunity for all teams.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino was quoted as affirming that the teams participating
in the World Cup are determined through sporting merit.
He stated, “The Iranian team is definitely coming.” This was seen as a reference
to the federation’s adherence to the qualifying results without external interference.
He also expressed his hope that the situation would remain stable during the tournament.
Italy rejects the idea
The proposal was met with widespread rejection within Italian sporting circles, with sports
and political officials arguing that qualification for the World Cup can only be achieved through merit on the field.
Officials described the idea as “unrealistic” and “unacceptable,” emphasizing
that any participation must be based on sporting merit.
This controversy comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup,
scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
These pronouncements come amidst assurances from FIFA of its full commitment to the tournament’s regulations.
The federation also confirmed that no exceptions will be made outside the established sporting framework.
