Italy could still qualify for 2026 World Cup as FIFA mulls contingency plan amid Iran uncertainty

Italy failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the European playoff final.

Updated on: Apr 13, 2026, 13:42:51 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Despite failing to qualify for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, Italy have some hope now to make it to the tournament. This comes after FIFA rejected Iran's request to relocate the World Cup games amid their ongoing conflict with US-Israel. All of Iran's group stage matches are scheduled to take place in the US, and Iran had requested its relocation to Mexico.

Italy lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European Playoff final. (REUTERS)

Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the European playoff final.

Also Read: US-Israel conflict with Iran disrupts global sport: Finalissima cancelled, F1 races scrapped, FIFA World Cup withdrawal

Iran's World Cup campaign is scheduled to begin on June 16 against New Zealand, and then they will face Belgium in California, followed by their match against Egypt in Seattle.

Hope for Italy as FIFA prepares for possible Iran withdrawal

According to reports, FIFA are preparing for a scenario if Iran withdraws from the tournament. The international football body is planning to organise a continental playoff if Iran withdraws. The playoff would have two teams from Asia and two from Europe, from sides that didn't qualify for the tournament.

Earlier, Infantino had quelled fears that Iran might withdraw. "The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw," he said.

"Iran will be at the World Cup. … That’s why we’re here.

"I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine," he added.

Meanwhile, it was Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who confirmed that Iran will play their matches in the USA.

"FIFA ultimately decided that the matches cannot be moved from their original venues," she said.

"It [relocation] would make logistics too complicated, and this decision was taken by FIFA."

Recently, Iran's Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali slammed US President Donald Trump. "Trump is making very contradictory statements; what he says is very inconsistent. He is making morally and ethically unbalanced statements. While this is the case, according to FIFA's relevant regulations, security must be provided in the country concerned. However, the World Cup is taking place soon, and providing guarantees during this period is questionable," he said.

"Under these circumstances, the possibility of Iran participating in the World Cup matches in the US is very low. But, if the relevant security guarantees are provided, our government will decide on Iran's participation in the World Cup," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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