Legendary Italian goalkeeper and former national team coach Dino Zoff believes Italy ought to actively seek a place in the 2026 World Cup, even though they failed to qualify through conventional means. This comes amid discussions about the Azzurri potentially replacing Iran at the upcoming tournament in North America. Zoff stated, “If the opportunity arose, we should take it, even if it’s not very sporting.”
Italy did not secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup after finishing second in their qualification group behind Norway. Their hopes were further dashed when they lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final via a penalty shootout at the end of March.
Despite Italy’s failure to qualify based on sporting merit, there have been proposals, including one from an associate of US President Donald Trump, for Italy to take Iran’s place at the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup is currently uncertain due to political reasons.
Paolo Zampolli confirmed his suggestion: “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 US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”
Zoff weighs in on Italy World Cup participation debate: ‘We should take it’
Zoff is among the latest prominent figures in Italian sports to share his perspective on the matter. While other officials, such as CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio and Italian Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi, feel that Italy has accepted its qualification fate and that pursuing a spot would be “inappropriate,” Zoff holds a different view. He maintains that Italy should seize the opportunity, “even if it’s not very sporting.”
“It’s something that could be done. It’s certainly not brilliant,” Zoff commented during a guest appearance on the Rai Radio1 program Un Giorno da Pecora. “If the opportunity arose, we should take it, even if it’s not very sporting.”
