Washington, April 23, 2026 – The Europe Today: A senior envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly urged FIFA to consider replacing Iran with Italy in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, according to a report published by the Financial Times on Wednesday.
The proposal was put forward by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli, who said he had personally suggested to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Italy be included in place of Iran.
“I confirm 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 U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli was quoted as saying.
The report noted that the proposal is part of broader efforts to mend strained relations between President Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following disagreements linked to the U.S. president’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV over the Iran war.
Neither the White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, nor the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran have issued official comments in response to media queries.
Italy’s national team recently faced a major setback after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, following a 1-4 penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final in March. In contrast, Iran has successfully secured qualification for its fourth consecutive tournament.
Reports also indicated that Iran reaffirmed its readiness to participate in the competition, though it had earlier stated it would finalize its decision only after receiving clarity from FIFA regarding a potential relocation of its matches from the United States to Mexico.
FIFA has yet to respond publicly to the reported proposal, and no official changes to the tournament lineup have been announced.
