Story perspectives

U.S. Envoy Urges Italy Replace Iran in 2026, Italy Refuses

4/24/2026

Summary

Zampolli Proposes Replacement

United States (U.S.) special envoy Paolo Zampolli suggested Italy replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup after Italy missed qualification.
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi said the idea is not possible and qualification is earned on the pitch.
Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called the proposal shameful and an embarrassment for Italy.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said Iran will definitely play while Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj said Iran is prepared.

Summary

FIFA Rejects Relocation

FIFA can replace a team under force-majeure per regulation 6.5 and rejected Iran’s request to move its matches to Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum said.
Iran will play New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21 (both at SoFi Stadium) and Egypt on June 26 at Seattle’s Lumen Field.
If Iran withdraws, Iraq or the United Arab Emirates could replace it, and U.S. immigration rules may affect travel, though FIFA says decisions follow its rules.

History

Historical Context

FIFA's 1991 regulations allowing team replacements under force majeure emerged after political unrest led to withdrawals, notably from Yugoslavia. This historical context underscores ongoing challenges in tournament integrity. The recent proposal for Italy to replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup reflects persistent geopolitical tensions, highlighting FIFA's struggle to balance competitive fairness with complex international relations, as seen in Iran's matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.

1 of 3

Zampolli Proposes Replacement

United States (U.S.) special envoy Paolo Zampolli suggested Italy replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup after Italy missed qualification.
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi said the idea is not possible and qualification is earned on the pitch.
Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called the proposal shameful and an embarrassment for Italy.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said Iran will definitely play while Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj said Iran is prepared.

1 / 3