Get Guardian on GoogleA special envoy to former U.S. President Donald Trump has urged world football governing body FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup—an idea that has already been dismissed by FIFA.
According to the Financial Times, U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli described it as a “dream” to see four-time champions Italy feature at the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Italy failed to qualify after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final, marking a third straight absence from the competition.
Zampolli said he had communicated the suggestion to both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing Italy’s pedigree as justification. The proposal, the report noted, may also be linked to efforts to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Iran’s participation has faced scrutiny amid its ongoing geopolitical tensions, including conflict involving the United States and Israel. The Iranian football federation had earlier explored the possibility of relocating its matches from the U.S. to Mexico.
However, Infantino has maintained that Iran will participate in the tournament as scheduled, in line with the official draw, effectively ruling out any late inclusion of Italy.
