Trump ally suggests replacing Iran with Italy at World Cup 2026 - FT
Donald Trump, President of the US (photo: Getty Images)
Trump's special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup, which starts in June, according to the Financial Times and NBC News.
According to FT sources, the proposal was made to both FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump, the leader of the country co-hosting the tournament.
Specifically, Zampolli argued that Italy's four World Cup titles justify granting them this spot.
Sources say the plan was an attempt to repair relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after a conflict arose between them over the US president's attacks on Pope Leo XVI regarding the war with Iran.
Zampolli himself confirmed to the publication that he had made such proposals.
"I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion," the envoy said.
The FT added that the idea of replacing Iran with Italy came after the Italian national team failed to qualify for the World Cup, which will be held in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Iran made a statement about its participation
Against the backdrop of the above-mentioned plans, a problem arises. On Wednesday, Iran issued a statement saying the country is ready for the tournament and plans to take part.
"The reality is that we are preparing for the World Cup. We are making preparations. Even today we were in training camp and our players are currently in camp. But ultimately, you know we are part of the establishment. Whatever decision the state makes, we will comply with that," said the president of Iran's football federation, Mehdi Taj.
What was said earlier in Iran, and what is the position of Trump and FIFA
Back in March, Iran stated that it would not participate in the tournament after US and Israeli airstrikes killed the country's leader and dozens of other senior officials and citizens. Tehran cited security concerns for its athletes who would travel to America.
Against this backdrop, the country's football federation considered moving its games to Canada or Mexico, but FIFA rejected that idea.
US President Donald Trump, for his part, said that Iranian footballers would be welcome to come to the US, but noted that it would be inappropriate and potentially dangerous for them.
FIFA declined to comment on the Trump envoy's efforts but pointed to a recent statement by the organization's president made last week.
"The Iranian team is coming, for sure. We hope that, by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. That would definitely help. But Iran has to come, of course. They represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play," Infantino said.
US and Iran may reach a peace agreement
For context, on the night of April 22, the ceasefire between the US and Iran was supposed to have already ended, but President Donald Trump decided to extend the truce until Iran formulates a unified proposal to end the war.
Yesterday, in an interview, the White House chief said that the second round of peace talks could take place as early as the end of this week.
