Italy and its national soccer team are keeping alive the hope of participating in the 2026 World Cup through a possible extraordinary play-off if FIFA decides to act in the eventual withdrawal of Iran due to the conflict with the United States.
The Azzurri, who failed to qualify for the World Cup after losing in the play-off final to Bosnia and Herzegovina, are keeping a close eye on a possible scenario in which Iran’s eventual withdrawal could open the door to a World Cup berth, according to local media reports on Tuesday.
FIFA rules and extraordinary play-off scenario
In the event of an Iranian resignation, article 6.7 of FIFA’s regulations, presided over by Italian-Swiss Gianni Infantino, states that world soccer’s governing body may appoint a replacement at its discretion.
In this context, Italy’s position in the FIFA ranking, currently in 12th place, could play in its favor.
However, the options are still considered remote and another possible avenue would be for the vacant slot to be filled by another Asian team.
In the hypothetical case of an exceptional play-off, two European teams could participate.
Possibly the best positioned in the ranking among the non-qualifiers, such as Italy and Denmark, and two Asian countries, to play in the 2026 World Cup.
The system would contemplate semifinals and a single-leg final to decide the final qualifier.
FIFA date not set: Italy awaits key decision
At this time there is no definite timetable for a decision on the matter.
Everything will depend on the evolution of the situation in the Middle East and the official confirmation of Iran’s participation.
In addition, the final decision would rest with the FIFA Council, the organization’s main decision-making body, composed of 37 members and chaired by Infantino.
This body would be in charge of determining how to fill an eventual vacancy in Group G of the tournament, in which Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand await.
The options are still considered remote
QuéOnnda.com
Likewise, the resolution should be adopted well in advance of the start of the championship, scheduled for June 11.
The regulations establish financial penalties for teams that withdraw less than 30 days before their first match.
This places May 12 as a theoretical deadline.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) thus remains on standby for a possible pathway to the 2026 World Cup after the disaster of failing to qualify for the third consecutive time.
With information from EFE
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