FIFA, the global governing body for football, has clarified that it has no plans to remove Iran from this year’s World Cup or to include Italy in their place.

The 2026 World Cup will primarily be hosted in the United States, though preparations have been affected by ongoing tensions in major American cities and continued conflict in the Middle East.

Iran’s participation has been questioned ever since their qualification, largely due to the nation’s ongoing conflict with the World Cup host country and former President Donald Trump’s remarks implying that Iranian visitors might not be safe in the United States. With less than two months remaining before the tournament begins, Iran—who earned their spot by right—have maintained their stance firmly.

The latest statements from American political circles have been as provocative as any of Trump’s earlier comments regarding Iran’s inclusion in the tournament.

In an interview with the Financial Times, U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli revealed: “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and [Gianni] Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m Italian, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri play at a World Cup hosted by the U.S. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”

Such remarks have been widely condemned as inappropriate in a serious sporting context. Iran remain the only party capable of deciding to withdraw at this stage, and there is no indication that such a move is being considered.

Proposals to replace a legitimately qualified team with one that failed to qualify are seen as blatant political interference and a show of disrespect toward both Iran and the integrity of the World Cup.

According to BBC Sport, “FIFA rules grant the world governing body ‘sole discretion’ in determining the course of action if a team withdraws or is excluded from the competition.”

Nonetheless, BBC sources have reported that FIFA is not considering Italy as a replacement. Instead, the United Arab Emirates could be a more plausible alternative—potentially through a play-off—as they are the highest-ranked non-qualifier from the Asian confederation.

The mere existence of such discussions reflects poorly on FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s leadership, given his close ties to Trump and the United States. It could place him in a difficult position if the host nation were to engage in conflict with another FIFA member while others have faced suspension for similar actions.

Italy’s involvement in the controversy stems from their repeated failures in qualification. Despite being four-time world champions and a perennial fan favourite, the Azzurri have struggled on the world stage since their 2006 triumph.

Under Gennaro Gattuso, Italy were defeated on penalties by Bosnia and Herzegovina in their play-off final in March, making it the third consecutive Italian team to miss out on the World Cup finals.

Italy have not appeared in a World Cup knockout match since their victory over France in the final two decades ago.