Italian officials have clearly responded to recent suggestions that Italy should replace Iran in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, stating that such a move is inappropriate and that qualification is earned through on-field performance.
Despite Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after finishing second in their group and losing in the play-offs, rumors have emerged about a potential replacement for Iran due to political concerns. Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-born envoy, reportedly approached the Presidents of the United States and FIFA with a proposal to have Italy take Iran’s place, citing Italy’s historical success in the tournament.
However, this proposal has been met with disapproval from Italian sports authorities. Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi and CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio both believe that Italy had its opportunity to qualify and did not earn its place. Buonfiglio expressed that he would feel offended by such a proposition, emphasizing that participation in the World Cup must be deserved. Abodi echoed this sentiment, stating that qualification is determined by performance on the pitch.
Officials Respond to Calls for Italy to Be Included in World Cup: ‘I’d Feel Offended’
Italian officials have taken a clear stance following the recent calls for Italy to replace Iran at the upcoming 2026 World Cup: ‘It’s not appropriate, you qualify on the pitch’.
Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after finishing second behind Norway in their qualification group, before going on to lose on penalties against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final at the end of March. This marks the third consecutive tournament that the four-time winners have missed.
However, there have been growing rumors that Italy could be considered to replace Iran at the 2026 tournament in North America, following concerns about a potential boycott on political grounds.
Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-born Trump envoy, recently told the Financial Times that he has directly approached the Presidents of the United States and FIFA with a proposal to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup.
“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli said. “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.”
Zampolli’s proposal has garnered mixed reactions in Italy. Both Italian Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi and CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio feel that Italy had their chance to qualify for the World Cup, and if they failed to achieve qualification the first time around, then they don’t ‘deserve’ to go.
“First of all, I don’t think it’s possible. Secondly, I would feel offended. You have to deserve to go to the World Cup,” said Buonfiglio (via La Gazzetta dello Sport).
Abodi added: “It’s not appropriate. You qualify on the pitch.”
