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Italy could replace Iran at World Cup (Trump)


That’s the reason. And when Iran first threatened to withdraw, which was before the final play off round, it was reported that that was the rule with no requirement for it to be from the same confederation.

The real unfairness is that Iran might be forced to withdraw because one of the hosts is bombing the fuck out of them. If they are though, then Italy as a replacement seems to be what the rule requires.
There isn’t a rule as far as I’m aware.
 
No.
Either just ignore Iran’s games or give each of the opposition teams a 2-0 win.
Quite simple really. It has happened all around the world when clubs have folded mid season.

The only loss will be financial (tkt sales etc)
In a world cup where top 2 in each group goes through, then this would not be a problem.

However they compare the 3rd place teams and the best 8 go through, so not replacing Iran (should they pull out) would give teams in Group G either an advantage or disadvantage, depending on how they work the points out.

I'm hoping, for the validation of the qualifying process, that Iran don't pull out and they are able to compete safely and fairly. However, if they do pull out the do need to be replaced.
 
There isn’t a rule as far as I’m aware.
Not a rule as such, but they do have contingency plans

FIFA’s Official Contingency Plan

Table of Contents
According to FIFA’s tournament regulations, if a team withdraws after the final draw (which took place in December 2025), the following steps are followed:

  1. Replacement with the Highest-Ranked Available Team
    The most likely replacement would be the highest-ranked teamthat did not qualify through the regular process. This could be:
    • The winner of the inter-confederation play-off (currently scheduled for March 2026)
    • Or the next best team from the AFC (Asia) rankings who missed qualification
  2. Group Format Adjustment
    If Iran withdraws, Group G would be reduced to three teams(Belgium, Egypt, New Zealand).
    • Each team would play only two group matches instead of three.
    • The top two teams would still advance to the Round of 32, along with the best third-placed teams from other groups.
  3. Schedule Changes
    The match between the replacement team and the remaining Group G sides would be rescheduled quickly. FIFA has already prepared flexible dates in late May and early June 2026 to handle such emergencies.
 
Iraq already qualified

Highest ranked team from that confederation would be United Arab Emirates (or would they need to be referred to as United Arab Territories to avoid breaking sponsorship rules?)
Amazed he isn't lobbying for them, since the Emirates as they own 49% of his cryto scan (I mean company)
 
Wont happen the Donald hates the Vatican and the Pope Italy are Ferked. Pakistan favs to replace the IRG eleven "They got my fav General its gunna be great @ YMCA
 
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"Iran have not requested to withdraw from the tournament and last month the Fifa president, Gianni Infantino, said they “will be at the World Cup”.
 
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