Italy's sports minister Andrea Abodi has dismissed suggestions that the Azzurri replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup as not possible or appropriate. The remarks follow a proposal by a US envoy to President Donald Trump amid doubts over Iran's participation due to ongoing conflict. Abodi emphasized that qualification occurs on the pitch.
Italy's sports minister Andrea Abodi poured cold water on the idea of his country stepping in for Iran at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking to Sky News, Abodi said, “Italy’s possible re-qualification for the 2026 World Cup … is firstly, not possible and secondly, not appropriate.” He added, “I don’t know what comes first. Qualification is on the pitch.” Italy missed qualification for a third straight tournament after losing a play-off to Bosnia-Herzegovina on penalties. Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy to the United States, confirmed to the Financial Times that he suggested the replacement to President Trump. Zampolli described it as a “dream” for Italy to play in a US-hosted World Cup 32 years after reaching the 1994 final there. Iran qualified for their fourth successive World Cup but faces uncertainty amid a war with the US and Israel that began with airstrikes on February 28. All three of Iran's Group G matches are set in the US: against New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles, and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has insisted Iran will participate, rejecting moves to relocate their games. In March, Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran's team was welcome but questioned its appropriateness for safety reasons. On Wednesday, Trump announced an indefinite ceasefire extension with Iran, though a US naval blockade persists.
