A surprising diplomatic move has brought Italian football back into contention for the World Cup, with a United States special envoy confirming he has formally asked FIFA to substitute Iran for Italy in the upcoming tournament.
Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-born envoy for former President Donald Trump, disclosed to the Financial Times that he personally presented this proposition to both Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“I confirm that I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli stated. “As an Italian native, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a tournament hosted by the US. With their four titles, they possess the credentials to warrant inclusion.”
Italy’s World Cup Hopes Reignited?
The Financial Times reports that this initiative is part of a wider attempt to mend relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following recent strains caused by Trump’s public criticism of Pope Leo XIV during the Iran conflict.
Iran’s participation in the tournament has been complicated by their request to FIFA to move their matches from the United States to Mexico, citing the prevailing geopolitical climate. Iran issued a statement on Wednesday, asserting their readiness for the tournament and their intention to participate, contingent on a formal response from FIFA regarding their venue request.
As of now, the White House, FIFA, the FIGC (Italian Football Federation), and the Iranian football federation have not responded to requests for comment.
Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time in March, losing their playoff final to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties. The likelihood of Zampolli’s intervention having a tangible impact on FIFA, given that their regulations make such unilateral replacements exceptionally difficult, remains highly uncertain.
