With under fifty days to go for kick-off, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has found itself at the centre of an unexpected geopolitical storm. US President Donald Trump has publicly suggested that Iran’s presence at the tournament may be inappropriate, even hinting at safety concerns, while voices in football circles speculate about a possible replacement with Italy national football team emerging as a contender if a vacancy arises.

At the heart of the issue is Iran national football team’s refusal to play matches in the United States, where all their group fixtures are scheduled.  The team has proposed shifting games to Mexico, but FIFA has rejected the idea, citing logistical challenges. Whether Iran ultimately participates, and what happens if they don’t, is quickly becoming one of the biggest uncertainties ahead of the tournament.

Political Deadlock Deepens

Tensions escalated after failed diplomatic talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad. Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, took a firm stance, declaring that participation in the US was not possible under current circumstances. His remarks reflected broader political grievances, adding fuel to an already sensitive situation.

Trump responded bluntly on social media, stating that Iran’s presence might not be appropriate “for their own safety.” Despite the rhetoric, Iran has stopped short of officially withdrawing, instead pushing for a venue change in hopes that FIFA might reconsider.

Why a Mexico Switch Isn’t Feasible

Relocating Iran’s matches to Mexico appears unrealistic at this stage. The tournament draw, finalized months ago, has already set in motion extensive planning, from travel arrangements and team bases to ticket sales and logistics.

Any change would also require agreement from other group-stage teams, Belgium national football team, New Zealand national football team, and Egypt national football team, making the process even more complicated.

Additionally, concerns around playing conditions in Mexico, particularly at the iconic Estadio Azteca, have been raised due to altitude and heat. Hosting extra fixtures at short notice would also strain local infrastructure.

Knockout Complications Loom

The situation could become even more complex if Iran progresses to the knockout stages, where a potential clash with the United States could force further schedule reshuffling. Given these cascading complications, FIFA’s reluctance to alter venues was always expected.

A Delicate Balancing Act for FIFA

Selecting a replacement, if needed, would not be straightforward. FIFA would need to navigate competing interests among its member nations while maintaining diplomatic balance. Influential countries such as China and Russia are reportedly in favour of Iran’s inclusion, adding another layer of complexity.

Infantino’s close rapport with Trump has also drawn scrutiny, with some questioning whether politics could influence sporting decisions. Ultimately, FIFA faces the difficult task of managing a situation where sport and geopolitics are tightly intertwined.

Rare but Not Unprecedented

Withdrawals after qualification are uncommon in modern World Cups. The last notable instance dates back to the 1950 FIFA World Cup, when multiple teams, including Turkey, France, Scotland, and India, opted out.

There have been moments of protest as well. Ahead of the 1978 FIFA World Cup, several teams considered boycotting due to political concerns, though none ultimately withdrew. Dutch legend Johan Cruyff was a notable absentee.

Earlier editions saw more frequent disruptions, including withdrawals in 1938 and reduced participation in 1934, but such scenarios are rare in the modern era.

FIFA having full control over the situation

FIFA regulations provide broad discretion in such cases. Clause 6.7 of the tournament guidelines states that if a team withdraws or is excluded, FIFA can decide on a replacement at its own discretion.

This ambiguity has sparked widespread speculation. Teams like Bolivia national football team, Italy national football team, and United Arab Emirates national football team have all been mentioned as possible candidates, depending on how FIFA interprets its rules.

Bolivia may emerge as a contender after falling short in the intercontinental playoffs, while Italy could come into consideration as the highest-ranked side that didn’t qualify. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates remain in the mix, having been one of the teams affected during Iran’s qualification pathway.

Man United are reportedly monitoring Tottenham centre-back Micky van de Ven as Spurs continue to flirt with relegation from the Premier League.

There was a time when Manchester United could knock on the door of almost any other team in England and cherry-pick the players they wanted to bring to Old Trafford.

Take Tottenham Hotspur, for example. Teddy Sheringham, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov were lured to United having shone at White Hart Lane, with the trio all heavily involved in Premier League and Champions League triumphs in the red of United. Plenty has changed since then and not just United’s status as English football’s top dogs.

The latter of the aforementioned transfers did not run smoothly, with the Bulgarian striker only signing on the dotted line late on deadline day in 2008. Manchester City’s takeover by the Abu Dhabi Group earlier in the day saw them make a move for Berbatov, with then-Spurs chairman Daniel Levy subsequently upping the fee.

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United have avoided transfer dealings with Spurs at all costs since that day, with Sergio Reguilon’s 2023 loan move to Old Trafford the only time they have done business since. United needed a left-back and Spurs wanted to ship Reguilon out – it was a deal that suited all parties.

United’s reluctance to deal with Spurs saw them avoid a move for Harry Kane in 2023 prior to his move to Bayern Munich, despite the England captain being Erik ten Hag’s preferred pick as they searched for a centre forward. Rasmus Hojlund signed instead. The Dane scored 14 league goals in the two years he spent at United before a loan move to Napoli, 48 fewer than Kane managed in that same period.

But with Levy now gone and Spurs circling the Premier League plughole, could United make a return to a club they have been so keen to avoid for so many years?

It’s claimed Micky van de Ven is being monitored by United ahead of the summer transfer window. Into his third year in the Premier League, the Dutchman has proved himself to be a top operator and Spurs’ possible relegation could see Van de Ven leave in a cut-price deal.

Strangely, earlier this season it would have been fair to claim centre-back was United’s strongest area of the pitch. However, Matthijs de Ligt looks as though he might have played his last game of the season and various other suspension and injury setbacks have left United down to the bare bones at centre half.

With the Reds potentially set to add around another 20 games to their calendar next season, signing another centre-back is by no means a bad idea and Van de Ven would be a great option if available at the right price.

At 25 he still has his best years ahead of him, meaning he fits the profile of player Ineos look for when bolstering the squad. United would likely face competition for his signature should they firm up their interest in him, with Liverpool also said to be monitoring his situation. With Champions League football almost certainly set to be on the table at Old Trafford, there’s no reason why United can’t win the race.

On the whole, United have looked to avoid transfer dealings with Spurs. With Levy gone and Spurs potentially set for the Premier League trap door, now could be the perfect time to swoop in.

Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package

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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.

Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.

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The New York Giants were armed with two picks in the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft, and the new regime led by head coach John Harbaugh showed its focus on the trenches on both sides of the ball.

With the fifth overall pick, the Giants saw Ohio State star edge rusher Arvell Reese fall to them and they pulled the trigger, taking their third edge rusher in the first round since 2022.

Then, with the No. 10 overall pick, the Giants had the opportunity to take another Buckeyes defensive star, as safety Caleb Downs fell down the draft board. But it’s clear the Giants are protecting their future, quarterback Jaxson Dart, as they went offensive line with their next pick.

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Arvell Reese of Ohio State celebrates after being selected as the fifth overall pick by the New York Giants during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa., on April 23, 2026. (Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa was called out of the NFL Draft green room in Pittsburgh as the No. 10 overall pick. While he played tackle with the Hurricanes, Mauigoa is expected to move to the offensive interior line.

The Giants re-signed Jermaine Eluemunor, who shined as the team’s right tackle in 2025, during free agency. He’s expected to remain in that role, but the Giants have question marks at guard, and there’s a belief Mauigoa can move inside.

TOP FIVE HILARIOUS NFL DRAFT NIGHT MOMENTS TO GET THE NOSTALGIA FLOWING

In some mock drafts entering Thursday, Reese was projected to go second overall to the New York Jets. But the Jets went with David Bailey out of Texas Tech instead.

From there, the Arizona Cardinals went with Jeremiyah Love, making him the highest-picked running back since the Giants took Saquon Barkley in 2018. The Tennessee Titans went with wide receiver Carnell Tate, the first Buckeyes player off the board, and Reese fell into their laps.

Giants receiver Malik Nabers, making an appearance on a draft show alongside Green Bay Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons, questioned where Reese would play considering Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Abdul Carter, the team’s No. 3 overall pick a year ago, play edge rusher.

But Harbaugh hinted at the plan to make Reese an inside linebacker – an area of need on the Giants’ defense. If that is the plan, Reese’s athleticism, which has been on display throughout his Ohio State career, will be tested at the NFL level.

Francis Mauigoa of Miami celebrates after being selected as the tenth overall pick by the New York Giants during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa., on April 23, 2026. (Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

As for Mauigoa, the 6-foot-5, 329-pound tackle was viewed as one of the top offensive line prospects in this draft throughout the process.

Mauigoa was a first-team All-American selection this past year for a Miami squad that reached the national championship game. He started all 16 games at right tackle for the Hurricanes.

There was, however, an injury question surrounding Mauigoa, as he has dealt with a back issue that may require surgery at some point in his pro career. Teams have their due diligence in these matters, and the Giants don’t seem to be concerned to spend the pick on him.

This was the 10th overall pick the Giants acquired after trading All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals last week, fulfilling his trade request amid a contract dispute.

Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese poses for a portrait during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on April 23, 2026. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

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Mauigoa already put himself in Giants fans’ good graces, saying during his draft interview, “I’ll die for you, Jaxson Dart.” That’s the type of energy Harbaugh, Dart and the rest of the Giants are looking for at an essential position on the football field.

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Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad dedicated Chennai Super Kings’ comprehensive 103-run victory to Mukesh Choudhary, who featured in the match despite the recent demise of his mother, as players wore black armbands in tribute during their clash against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. “Pretty tough on him (Mukesh Choudhary), I would dedicate this win to him. All glory to him. Everyone chipped in and wanted to be there for him. Feels good (on the win),” Gaikwad said after the match.

CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark.

In response, the Mumbai Indians struggled from the outset and were eventually bowled out for 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad provided crucial support.

Speaking about the decision at the toss, Gaikwad revealed it was instinctive. “My gut feeling wanted me to bat first. Sanju and I said that it wasn’t coming on nicely.”

He credited the collective batting effort, highlighting the importance of small contributions. “Everyone chipped in really well. Even the 20s helped. Sanju played a magnificent knock and took us home,” he said.

“Mukesh to Quinton de Kock, that set the momentum. He started really well,” he added.

Praising the bowling unit and team balance, he added, “It’s a blessing to have Akeal and Noor. Everyone is settling. Everyone is calm and composed.”

Reflecting on the team’s approach and growing rhythm in the tournament, Gaikwad said, “We have been doing well; it’s just starting to click. We are trying to cover all the bases. We start from zero, it’s about assessing.”

Meanwhile, after the win, CSK have moved up to the fifth position in the points table with six points in seven matches. They will next face the Gujarat Titans on April 26.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Kris Lees will highlight a duo of gifted three-year-olds in his Anzac Day lineup at Randwick, following news that Lord Of Biscay takes his place in the Tamworth Cup.

Winner of the Provincial-Midway Championships Final, the gelding Lord Of Biscay leads early betting for Saturday’s First Australian Imperial Force Handicap (1500m), though Lees reveals he will journey to Tamworth a day ahead.

“It looks a nice race for him,” Lees said of the Tamworth Cup, which carries Big Dance eligibility.

Lees, riding high from an excellent autumn featuring Changingoftheguard’s long-shot success in the Sydney Cup, seeks to identify future stars in Night Agent and Cantiamo.

He elects to reduce Night Agent’s distance to 1400m in the Last Post Handicap on Saturday, interested in his level of form.

After two triumphs, the gelding debuts on Sydney Saturdays, having powered home by 10 lengths at a country meet on Beaumont and then claiming a 1500m midweek metro race at Hawkesbury.

“It was a Cessnock meeting, with all due respect,” Lees said of Night Agent’s win two starts ago.

“Still, he did it convincingly and won well. Then he went to a Hawkesbury metro and won well. He was just a little aggressive early and it took its toll late, although he still won.
“But we decided to drop him back to 1400. It’s probably a more appropriate distance at the moment.”

Cantiamo has been a firm favourite of Lees, who has entered her in stakes events repeatedly, including a brave sixth in her last start, the P J Bell Stakes (1200m).

In The Third Australian General Hospital Handicap (1200m) against more experienced mares, Lees tips her to dominate, with sights set on the Denise’s Joy Stakes (1200m) at Scone come May 16.

“That would be the plan if she runs well. It’s in three weeks so she can have a freshen and drop back in trip,” Lees said.

“We tried her in stakes company a few times and she has been competitive without winning. It’s a little drop back in grade and she is going really well.”

Valorous Power joins Night Agent but remains in adjustment phase per Lees, building fitness, as Zaphod and Kind Words pose credible dangers in the Anzac Day Cup (1800m).

Lees pins his greatest faith on the three-year-olds for victories.

“Cantiamo and Night Agent are two really nice horses and they’ll both run well,” he said.

Discover leading racing betting markets ahead of the key Anzac Day handicaps at Randwick.