FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, shutting down speculation that Italy could be drafted in as a late replacement.
Uncertainty had grown over Iran’s participation amid the country’s conflict involving the US and Israel, as well as the fact that their group fixtures are scheduled to be played on American soil.
Iran were notably absent from the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, but Infantino moved quickly to address the issue.
“Of course, Iran will play in the United States of America,” Infantino said. “The reason for that is simple, because we have to unite. We have to bring people together.”
The statement effectively ends growing chatter that Italy could be recalled if Iran withdrew or were excluded. The idea gained traction after Donald Trump envoy Paolo Zampolli claimed this week that Italy had “more than a 50 per cent chance” of a surprise return.
Italian football officials, however, have repeatedly said they would not want to enter the tournament in such circumstances.
The World Cup begins on June 11. Iran are due to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, before meeting Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
