Donald Trump envoy urges FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at 2026 World Cup
US special envoy Paolo Zampolli has formally suggested to FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy should replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup amid ongoing military tensions between Washington and Tehran.
The unprecedented request arrives during a temporary ceasefire in the escalating conflict between the United States and the Middle Eastern nation.
While Infantino recently insisted there is no contingency plan to remove the Iranian national team, uncertainty continues to cloud their tournament participation.
Azzurri offered an unlikely lifeline
Zampolli confirmed his radical proposal to the Financial Times, advocating for the four-time world champions to take the vacant spot if one arises.
“As an Italian native, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri competing in a tournament hosted by the United States,” Zampolli stated.
“With four titles, they have the history and stature to warrant inclusion.”
The European heavyweights failed to qualify for the tournament after suffering a shock play-off defeat against Bosnia last month.
Gattuso departs following qualification failure
That devastating loss in the European qualifiers prompted head coach Gennaro Gattuso to immediately resign from his post.
“With pain in my heart, having failed to achieve the target we set ourselves, I am bringing an end to my experience as national team boss,” the former midfielder told fans.
Despite the high-profile American backing, Italian Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi has dismissed the prospect of a late tournament entry as highly unlikely.
Diplomatic tensions overshadow Group G
The Iranian squad are currently scheduled to begin their campaign against New Zealand on 15 June.
Group G also features challenging fixtures against Belgium and Egypt for the Asian powerhouse.
Trump caused a diplomatic stir last month by urging the team to stay away from the North American tournament for their own safety.
Tehran responded defiantly to the American president, suggesting the co-hosts should withdraw from their own competition instead.
