FIFA Iran Italy World Cup swap rejected as FIFA confirms Iran will compete at the tournament despite political proposals to replace them

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), world football’s governing body, moved to dismiss suggestions that Iran could be replaced by Italy at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, reaffirming that all qualified teams will participate in the tournament scheduled across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

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The clarification follows reports that Paolo Zampolli, a United States special envoy, had floated the idea of a FIFA Iran Italy World Cup swap during discussions linked to political tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Zampolli, speaking to the Financial Times, said he had suggested to former US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Italy could replace Iran at the tournament.

He described the idea as a personal aspiration, citing Italy’s football pedigree and four World Cup titles.

However, FIFA has privately indicated that Iran remains fully included in the competition, with no plans to alter the lineup of qualified nations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also previously addressed the situation, stating that Iran would participate as scheduled and emphasising that the tournament should remain separate from political tensions.

He reiterated that qualified teams must be allowed to compete, stressing the importance of keeping sport outside political influence.

Iran’s participation had been the subject of speculation following regional tensions, but officials in Tehran have maintained that the national team is prepared for the competition.

The Iranian squad is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15 and 21 June, before concluding their group stage fixtures against Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.

Italy, meanwhile, will miss a third consecutive World Cup after failing to qualify, having lost their play-off tie to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Under FIFA regulations, the organisation retains sole authority to replace any team that withdraws or is excluded, but officials have made no indication that such a scenario is under consideration.

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The tournament is set to kick off on 11 June, with anticipation building as teams complete final preparations for football’s biggest global event.