dailyloe.com – FIFA is preparing for Iran’s potential withdrawal from the 2026 World Cup with a new contingency plan. This plan could offer the Italian national team a final chance to qualify for the tournament. The 2026 World Cup is hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Italy failed to qualify after losing a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Iran’s participation in the summer tournament remains unclear due to the war it is waging. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has assured that Iran will take part in Group Seven. The group also includes Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand. Iran is scheduled to begin its campaign on June 16 against New Zealand.
Iran may be forced to withdraw after FIFA refused to move its matches outside the United States. This would put FIFA in an awkward position weeks before the tournament. According to a report by RMC Sport citing The Athletic, FIFA is discussing an emergency scenario. This involves organizing an exceptional continental playoff if Iran withdraws.
The playoff would include two teams from Asia and two from Europe. These teams would be from among those that did not qualify for the tournament. Thanks to its world ranking, Italy appears to be a certain candidate for a European spot. This is contingent on Iran’s withdrawal being officially confirmed.
Italy failed to reach the World Cup for the third consecutive time after 2018 and 2022. This disaster led to coach Gennaro Gattuso’s departure. It also brought down the president of the Italian federation. The UAE national team could also be a candidate for the exceptional playoff. The UAE was eliminated by Iraq, which qualified for the tournament.
Iran is scheduled to play Belgium in California after its opener. Its final group match is against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle. The discussions within FIFA represent a potential lifeline for Italy. The plan remains a contingency dependent on Iran’s official status.[]
Source: Goal.com
