A senior envoy to Donald Trump has urged FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup, citing uncertainty over Tehran’s ability to participate in the US-hosted tournament safely. The proposal, first reported by the Financial Times, comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and logistical concerns surrounding Iran’s involvement.
Envoy Makes Case for Italy’s Inclusion
US special envoy Paolo Zampolli said he had suggested to Donald Trump and Gianni 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,” he told the Financial Times.
Effort to Repair US–Italy Relations
The move is also seen as an attempt to mend strained ties between Trump and Italy’s prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, following disagreements linked to the US president’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV during the Iran conflict, according to people familiar with the matter.
Italy’s Absence From Qualification
Italy’s potential inclusion follows a surprising failure to qualify. The national team missed out on the World Cup for a third consecutive time after a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this year, an unprecedented setback for one of football’s most decorated sides.
Iran’s Participation Remains Uncertain
Iran’s involvement, meanwhile, remains in question. On Tuesday, the country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, said participation hinges on security guarantees for players traveling to the US.
“If the safety of the national team’s players in the United States is ensured, we will travel to the World Cup,” he said, according to Tasnim News Agency.
The national team may not go to the World Cup, but if we are going to participate, we must be ready.
FIFA Rejects Match Relocation Requests
Iran had previously requested that its matches be moved to Mexico, but FIFA has dismissed the possibility, citing logistical constraints and confirming that all fixtures will proceed as scheduled.
While the US envoy is pushing for Italy’s inclusion in the tournament, Iran has not officially withdrawn from the 2026 World Cup. As a result, any potential replacement remains uncertain, with Iran yet to confirm whether or not it will participate in the tournament.
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