Washington DC, April 24 -- Uncertainty over Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has deepened after remarks from the United States President Donald Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted potential security and entry issues.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli had earlier proposed to replace Iran's football team with Italy in the competition.

"I don't think about it too much... Let me gie that a little thought," Trump told the media at the White House when asked about the potential idea of Italy replacing Iran in the World Cup tournament, which is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Marco Rubio, however, struck a more direct tone, clarifying that the Un...