Why Italy will not be reinstated for the World Cup if Iran withdraw | OneFootball

Iran are expected to play at this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Even if they withdrew, any replacement would come from Asia, not Italy.

According to the Financial Times, Paolo Zampolli, a close associate of the US president, has proposed to FIFA and Gianni Infantino that Italy take Iran’s place at the 2026 finals, which run from 11 June to 19 July.

Zampolli cited his Italian roots and described it as a dream to see the Azzurri in a US-hosted tournament, pointing to the country’s four titles in 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006. Italy have failed to qualify for a third straight edition.

FIFA has not engaged with the idea and has assurances that Iran will participate and the United States will host them. Even if circumstances changed, it would not be Italy stepping in to join Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand in Group G.

An Iranian absence would be handled by the Asian Football Confederation. With the expansion to 48 teams, Asia has eight or nine berths, and after Iraq’s late qualification the confederation finished with nine. The slot would likely pass to the United Arab Emirates.

Adding another European place is considered impossible, with UEFA already on 16 of 55. Senior Italian figures have also rejected the notion, insisting World Cup spots must be earned on the pitch, while other confederations would view an Italian reprieve as a slight as Infantino targets 2027 re-election.

Source: L'Équipe