World Cup 2026: Italy to get a second chance?

A withdrawal by Iran would automatically open up an extra spot.

World Cup 2026 11 April 2026 at 05:52

Just when Italy thought their World Cup 2026 story was over, an unexpected twist is back on the table.

Knocked out by Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoffs, the Italians saw their dreams come crashing down. Yet, according to The Athletic, an extraordinary scenario could shuffle the deck. Iran's participation remains under scrutiny, particularly due to tensions with the United States, the host nation of the tournament.

Nonostante l'eliminazione nella finale playoff per mano della Bosnia, la partecipazione dell'Italia ai Mondiali 2026, che si disputeranno dall'11 giugno al 19 luglio negli Stati Uniti, in Canada e in Messico, non è uno scenario impossibile. Il nodo della questione è legato… pic.twitter.com/10mMcHGih9
— Eurosport IT (@Eurosport_IT) April 10, 2026

In that case, several options would be considered by FIFA. Among them: organizing new intercontinental playoffs, where Italy could aim for an unexpected comeback. Another possibility would be to hand the spot directly to an Asian side such as the United Arab Emirates, which would drastically reduce Italy's hopes. At this stage, nothing has been decided. Logistical constraints remain a major obstacle to any change in the tournament format.

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