FIFA has issued a clear and firm response to increasing demands for Iran to be removed from the 2026 World Cup, ruling out any chance of bringing in replacement teams such as Italy or Nigeria.
The discussion intensified after US envoy Paolo Zampolli suggested that Italy could take Iran’s place due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
However, the global football body has dismissed the idea entirely.
Infantino Stands Firm on Qualification Rules
FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran will compete in the tournament as scheduled.
His statement reinforces FIFA’s long-standing policy that World Cup qualification must be determined strictly by on-field performance, not political factors.
Why Italy and Nigeria Were Mentioned
Italy and Nigeria became part of the conversation because of their strong football histories, but neither team qualified for the 2026 tournament.
Italy, a four-time World Cup champion, failed to make it after suffering a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking another disappointing absence.
They want to do it the right way✍️ 🇮🇹❌
The end of this story seems to have finally arrived…
Italy has rejected the proposal sent by the circle of Donald Trump to replace Iran at the World Cup. The idea was widely criticized and quickly shut down by Italian authorities.… pic.twitter.com/yEzSKV00J1
— NextMex (@NextMexOficial) April 23, 2026
Nigeria, on the other hand, missed out after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoffs.
Although the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a petition over alleged ineligible players, the outcome remained unchanged, with DR Congo securing the ticket.
Global Reactions to Replacement Proposal
The idea of replacing Iran with another team has faced widespread criticism, including from officials and authorities in Italy.
Many stakeholders have stressed that World Cup participation should be based solely on merit, not external influence or political pressure.
Check out the update below:
They want to do it the right way✍️ 🇮🇹❌
The end of this story seems to have finally arrived…
Italy has rejected the proposal sent by the circle of Donald Trump to replace Iran at the World Cup. The idea was widely criticized and quickly shut down by Italian authorities.… pic.twitter.com/yEzSKV00J1
— NextMex (@NextMexOficial) April 23, 2026
Geopolitical Concerns and FIFA’s Position
The controversy is linked to uncertainties surrounding Iran’s participation due to tensions involving the United States and Israel. Despite this, FIFA has consistently maintained that football should remain separate from politics.
Iran has already secured qualification and is expected to play matches in the United States, one of the host nations alongside Canada and Mexico. Iranian authorities have also confirmed their readiness to take part in the tournament.
See below:
🚨 FIFA have REJECTED Donald Trump’s idea to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup. 🇮🇷❌🇮🇹
Italy have also turned down the proposal, viewing it as an attack on their pride.
(Source: El Pais) https://t.co/Cii2RJJmU2 pic.twitter.com/4ehAJuP7Aj
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 23, 2026
No Indication of Replacement Scenario
While FIFA rules allow for team replacements in exceptional cases, the organisation has full authority over such decisions. At present, there is no sign that Iran will withdraw or be disqualified.
Infantino emphasised that Iran earned its spot fairly and should compete, underscoring FIFA’s commitment to fairness and sporting integrity.
