A close ally of US president Donald Trump has proposed that Iran be replaced by Italy at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
The proposal was made by US envoy Paolo Zampolli, who said he had personally raised the idea with both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
“I confirm I have suggested… that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli said, adding that it would be “a dream” to see the four-time champions compete in the tournament despite failing to qualify.
Italy missed out on qualification after losing in the playoffs, while Iran had already secured its place at the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Zampolli argued that Italy’s football pedigree justified inclusion, noting the country’s historic success on the global stage, even as questions persist over the role of politics in sporting decisions.
The suggestion comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran, with uncertainty surrounding the country’s participation due to ongoing conflict and security concerns.
However, officials in Italy have distanced themselves from the proposal, with the country’s sports authorities reportedly dismissing the idea as inappropriate and insisting that World Cup places must be earned through qualification.
FIFA has also given no indication that it is considering any such change, maintaining that Iran remains qualified for the tournament.
For now, the proposal remains just that — a political suggestion with little traction in football’s rulebook, where qualification on the pitch still carries the final word.
