A special envoy linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Italy should replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sparking international attention.
Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-American diplomat, confirmed to the Financial Times that he personally proposed the idea to Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing it as a “dream” scenario for Italy to compete on American soil despite failing to qualify.
Zampolli told the Financial Times that he had raised the proposal directly with both Trump and Infantino. “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA president Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” he said.
He argued that Italy, a four-time World Cup champion, would bring prestige and excitement to the tournament, especially with matches set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026. Italy, however, did not qualify for the tournament through the normal qualification process.
The suggestion reportedly comes amid wider diplomatic efforts to mend strained relations between the United States and Italy. Tensions have recently surfaced over geopolitical issues, including disagreements related to the Vatican and the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
According to the Financial Times, discussions between Trump, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and other key figures have aimed at improving ties. Zampolli’s proposal is said to align with broader attempts to strengthen U.S.-Italy relations.
Despite the attention the idea has generated, there is no confirmed evidence that Trump himself initiated or formally backed the proposal.
Multiple international media outlets, including Reuters, The Guardian, and Fox News, have reported that the suggestion originated from Zampolli. While Trump has previously commented that Iran’s participation in the 2026 tournament could be affected by security concerns amid heightened tensions, there is no indication that he officially called for a team swap.
Zampolli defended his suggestion as a positive move for global football and diplomacy. He described Italy’s inclusion as beneficial for the tournament’s image and commercial appeal, given the country’s rich football history.
Italy has won the World Cup four times and remains one of the sport’s most decorated national teams, even though it has struggled in recent qualification campaigns.
The proposal has sparked debate among football fans and analysts, many of whom argue that World Cup qualification should be determined strictly on sporting merit rather than political or diplomatic considerations. Critics say replacing a qualified team would undermine FIFA’s rules and the integrity of the tournament. Others see the suggestion as unlikely to gain serious traction, given FIFA’s strict regulations and the potential backlash from the global football community.
As of now, FIFA has not indicated any plan to alter the list of qualified teams for the 2026 World Cup. The tournament is expected to proceed under established qualification guidelines. Whether Zampolli’s proposal remains a diplomatic talking point or fades away quietly, it has already added a political twist to preparations for one of football’s biggest global events….See More
Leave a Reply