Italy’s national soccer team’s hopes of returning to the World Cup have taken an unexpected turn, with reports suggesting a potential backdoor could open ahead of the 2026 tournament.
According to multiple reports, FIFA is internally reviewing contingency plans amid uncertainty over the participation of Iran’s national soccer team, with geopolitical tensions casting a shadow over their participation in the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Italy have seen their qualification dreams crumble before they extended their absence from the World Cup for the third year in a row after a painful play-off defeat to the national football team of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Failure also led to resignation of head coach Gennaro Gattusowhich further highlights the scale of the crisis.
However, with Iran’s placement uncertain, discussions have reportedly begun over a possible exceptional play-off scenario that could involve teams that narrowly missed out on qualification.
Despite the speculation, Gianni Infantino has publicly maintained that there is no alternative plan at this stage, although behind-the-scenes talks continue.
“We want Iran to play in the World Cup. There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represents its people – both those who live in Iran and those who live abroad,” Infantino said recently.
At the same time, political concerns have added to the uncertainty, with Donald Trump previously warning about the safety and adequacy of Iranian participation given the ongoing tensions.
WILL IRAN PLAY IN FIFA WORLD CUP 2026?
Currently, Iran is still expected to participate in the tournament and has already been placed in Group G alongside Belgium national football team, Egypt national football team and New Zealand national football team.
However, the situation remains fluid. While a temporary truce is said to be in place, it is unclear in the long term whether conditions will remain stable enough for the team to travel and compete without complications.
FIFA, at least publicly, continues to support Iran’s participation. But the mere fact that crisis discussions are being reported suggests that governing bodies are quietly preparing for all possibilities.
HOW CAN ITALY PLAY THE 2026 WC?
For now, Italy’s path remains purely hypothetical and depends on developments beyond its control. Any chance of a return depends entirely on Iran’s withdrawal, something FIFA has publicly denied but is quietly preparing for behind the scenes.
Even when that happens, the path is far from straightforward. FIFA would have to approve an exceptional process, which would likely involve multiple confederations, rather than providing a direct replacement.
Possible scenarios discussed:
- A one-off intercontinental playoff involving European and Asian teams
- Italy are likely to be among Europe’s top non-qualifiers due to placement
- Two European and two Asian teams could appear in the mini-tournament
- The winner(s) could fill the vacancy if Iran withdraws
- Asian teams such as the UAE or Iraq are also fighting for a replacement
“It’s a continental issue. It really seems very difficult to me that there could be a problem if it doesn’t occur in Europe,” said Andrea Abodi.
“I don’t think so and I wouldn’t hope so,” he added, playing down expectations that Italy would benefit from the situation.
Even when contingency plans are explored, the likelihood remains slim. For Italy, it’s less about planning a comeback and more about maintaining a weak, unexpected option.
– The end
Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
13 Apr 2026 12:14 IST
