FIFA Confirms Iran's Participation in World Cup 2026

FIFA has confirmed that there are no plans to replace Iran in the upcoming World Cup, despite suggestions from U.S. Special Envoy Paolo Zampolli.

Zampolli's comments came during ongoing uncertainties regarding Iran's participation due to geopolitical tensions involving the U.S. and Israel. He proposed that U.S.

President Donald Trump could influence FIFA to replace Iran with Italy, which failed to qualify for the tournament after a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously stated that the Iranian team would participate, and the Iranian embassy has also confirmed this.

Zampolli's remarks have been criticized as reflecting the moral bankruptcy of the United States. The World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 21, 2026, across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with Iran scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and Seattle, respectively.