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Iran Signals Readiness for 2026 World Cup as US Envoy Urges FIFA to Replace Iran with Italy

publish time

23/04/2026

publish time

23/04/2026

Iran Signals Readiness for 2026 World Cup as US Envoy Urges FIFA to Replace Iran with Italy

TEHRAN, Apr 23: Iran has announced it is fully prepared to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as a senior Trump administration envoy asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, citing geopolitical tensions and safety concerns, according to the Financial Times.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohejerani said the Ministry of Youth and Sports has completed all necessary preparations for the national team’s participation in the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

She added that arrangements are in place to ensure a “proud and successful” presence for the team, reflecting Iran’s readiness to compete on the global stage.

However, uncertainty remains over Iran’s final participation after reports that a senior US envoy has urged FIFA to exclude Iran from the tournament, citing geopolitical tensions and security concerns. The proposal reportedly includes replacing Iran with Italy.

No official decision has been announced by FIFA, leaving the situation unresolved as preparations for the tournament continue.