Italy’s chances of returning to the World Cup may not be over just yet. A potential last-minute twist involving Iran national football team has reportedly pushed FIFA to consider an emergency backup plan — one that could unexpectedly bring Italy national football team back into the picture.
⚠️ Uncertainty Surrounding Iran’s Participation
Doubts continue to grow over Iran’s presence at the FIFA World Cup 2026. While FIFA is still awaiting a final decision from the Asian side, internal discussions have already begun regarding a replacement scenario in case Iran withdraws at the last minute.
The situation remains complicated, with ongoing geopolitical tensions and disagreements over match locations adding to the uncertainty.
🔄 FIFA’s Emergency Playoff Scenario
According to reports, including from The Athletic, FIFA is considering organizing an intercontinental playoff to fill Iran’s potential vacancy.
This mini-tournament would feature four teams:
- Two from Europe (UEFA)
- Two from Asia (AFC)
The teams would be selected based on their FIFA rankings among those who failed to qualify. The proposed participants include:
- Italy national football team
- Denmark national football team
- United Arab Emirates national football team
- Oman national football team
They would compete in semifinals and a final, with only one team earning the right to replace Iran.
🌟 Italy – The Strongest Contender?
Ranked 12th in the world, Italy would likely enter the playoff as the favorite. For the Azzurri, this represents a rare second chance to salvage what has otherwise been a disappointing qualification campaign.
Italy had initially seen their World Cup dream end after a painful penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in the European playoffs.
📉 A Nation Desperate for Redemption
The four-time world champions have already missed the last two World Cups (2018 and 2022), and failing again would mark a historic low.
The latest setback led to major consequences, including the departure of head coach Gennaro Gattuso and significant changes within the Italian football federation.
🌍 Ongoing Dispute Over Iran’s Matches
Despite FIFA president Gianni Infantino previously confirming Iran’s placement in Group G alongside Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand, the situation is far from settled.
Iran has reportedly insisted on playing all three group-stage matches in Mexico — a request FIFA has rejected. This disagreement has further complicated their participation status.
According to the schedule:
- Iran is set to face New Zealand on June 16
- Then Belgium in California
- And Egypt in Seattle
However, everything now depends on Iran’s final decision.
⏳ Waiting for the Final Call
FIFA is currently holding off on activating the playoff plan, awaiting official confirmation from Iran. Should the Asian side withdraw, the emergency playoff could be triggered — reopening the door for Italy in dramatic fashion.
For the Azzurri, hope may be fading… but not gone just yet.