Italy’s participation in the 2026 World Cup remains a possibility, depending on Iran’s final decision regarding their participation in the tournament scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Azzurri failed for the third consecutive time to qualify for the World Cup, this time after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European playoff final on penalties. This led to the dismissal of coach Gennaro Gattuso and the resignation of Italian Football Federation president Gravina.
Iran might withdraw from the 2026 World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had confirmed during the last international break that the Iranian national team would participate in the World Cup without any issues, without revealing further details.
Iran has formally requested FIFA to move its three group stage matches to Mexico instead of the United States due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US.
The Iranian Minister of Sport revealed that his country’s request has not yet received a response, indicating that this could ultimately lead to Iran’s withdrawal, as it currently refuses to travel to the US under any circumstances.
He added, “Under these circumstances, the possibility of Iran participating in the World Cup matches being held in the US is very low. However, if the necessary security guarantees are provided, our government will make its decision regarding Iran’s participation in the World Cup.”
FIFA Considers New Intercontinental Playoff
According to The Athletic, FIFA has begun exploring all possible scenarios to replace Iran should it maintain its refusal to play matches in the US.
The first and most likely scenario is the participation of the highest-ranked Asian team that is currently absent from the World Cup, namely the UAE, which missed out on qualification through the Asian playoffs.
However, another scenario is being considered: holding another global playoff in May, coinciding with the final international break before the World Cup. This would see the two highest-ranked Asian teams face the two highest-ranked European teams that participated in the European playoffs, guaranteeing Italy’s participation.
Just as the global playoff was held in Mexico last March, the new playoff could potentially take place in one of the three host countries for the 2026 World Cup.
Italy star admits: I sought psychological help after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup
This remains just an idea, entirely dependent on Iran’s stance. With the recent collapse of negotiations between Iran and the United States, the chances of the Iranian national team withdrawing from the World Cup have increased, prompting FIFA to consider the most suitable and equitable scenario.
Italy currently has an interim coach
The Italian Football Federation appointed Silvio Baldini, the Under-21 coach, as interim manager of the senior national team following Gennaro Gattuso’s departure.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced in a statement that Baldini will lead the Italian national team in friendlies against Greece and Luxembourg in June, before a permanent coach is appointed once a new president of the federation is elected.
Antonio Conte remains the frontrunner for the position, especially since he has expressed interest. Other names mentioned include Roberto Mancini and Massimiliano Allegri, with the possibility of convincing Pep Guardiola to take on the role also considered, albeit remotely.
