A special envoy to US President Donald Trump has formally requested that world football governing body FIFA consider replacing Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times.
Background of the Proposal
US special envoy Paolo Zampolli, an Italian native, told the Financial Times that seeing Italy participate in the World Cup hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada would be a "dream." Italy failed to qualify after losing a playoff match last month against Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout.
Zampolli stated, "I confirm I have suggested to Trump and FIFA President 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."
Iran's Response
The Iranian embassy in Rome responded sharply, describing the suggestion as evidence of America's "moral bankruptcy." The embassy added that Italy does not need "political privileges" to prove its football record. In a statement on social media, the embassy said, "Italy has earned its greatness in football on the pitch, not thanks to political privileges. The attempt to exclude Iran from the World Cup only reveals the 'moral bankruptcy' of the United States, which is afraid even of the presence of eleven young Iranians on the field of play."
Geopolitical Context
The Financial Times report linked the proposal to ongoing efforts to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. These tensions reportedly stem from disagreements over comments related to Pope Leo XIV and the Iran war.
Iran's participation in the World Cup has been uncertain since the outbreak of war with the US and Israel on February 28. In April, the Iranian football federation (FFIRI) confirmed it was in discussions with FIFA to relocate its World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico.
FIFA's Position
FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the issue last month during Iran's friendly match against Costa Rica in Turkey. He stated that Iran would participate in the World Cup and would play "where they are supposed to be, according to the draw."
The proposal to replace Iran with Italy remains a suggestion at this stage, with no official decision from FIFA. The World Cup is scheduled to take place across North America, and any changes to the participant list would require formal approval from FIFA's governing bodies.
