No late World Cup drama for Italy as Iran take major step towards summer tournament

Iran have taken a significant step towards confirming their place at the 2026 World Cup, flying to Turkey to begin pre-tournament preparations after FIFA offered fresh assurances over their participation, ending speculation that could have had major consequences for Italy.

According to Le Parisien, via IlNapolista, a meeting described as “constructive” took place in Istanbul between FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström and the Iranian federation, with Grafström reiterating that Iran will be welcomed at the tournament.

The team will use Antalya as an interim base to complete visa applications before flying to the United States.

Iran’s participation had been far from guaranteed amid ongoing geopolitical tensions following conflict in the region, with federation president Mehdi Taj having flagged significant delays in the visa process in recent weeks.

The uncertainty had briefly generated speculation that Italy, as the highest-ranked nation not to have qualified, could be drafted in as a replacement.

For most observers, however, the suggestion was viewed as little more than an additional humiliation for the Azzurri, who failed to earn their place through qualification.

Iran’s progression towards the tournament means that particular conversation can now be put to bed.