Iran remains in competition, Italy will not replace the team at the World Cup

Iran has not withdrawn from the World Cup competition and is preparing to play in the United States, despite tensions in the Middle East. FIFA has confirmed that the group stage matches, scheduled to take place near Los Angeles and Seattle, will occur as planned in June.

Paolo Zampolli, the U.S. special envoy for global partnerships, proposed that Italy be considered as a backup option in case the Iranian national team cannot participate. Zampolli emphasized that his proposal is not a political request, but an emergency plan, citing Italy's track record in international competition.

However, Italian authorities, including Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, have categorically rejected the idea, stating that it is not feasible and that it is not a good idea.