A senior envoy to Donald Trump has asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup.
The report came from the Financial Times on Wednesday. It said the move is also linked to efforts to fix ties between Trump and Giorgia Meloni. Their relation became tense after Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV during the Iran war.
U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli shared his view. He said, “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.”
There was no quick response from the White House, FIFA, the Italian federation, or the Asian body.
Italy faced a big shock in March. The team missed the World Cup again after losing a playoff to Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was their third straight failure to qualify.
Iran, on the other hand, secured a place for the fourth World Cup in a row. But after the war began, they asked FIFA to move their group matches from the United States to Mexico.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino later said the matches will go on as planned. He also offered support to the Iran team.
Iran football chief Mehdi Taj said, “We are preparing and making arrangements for the World Cup, but we are obedient to the decisions of the authorities.”
He added, “For now, the decision is for the national team to be fully prepared for the World Cup.”
If Iran withdraws, FIFA will decide the replacement. The rules allow them to pick any team.
The Asian body may push for a team from its region. The United Arab Emirates could be an option after losing a playoff to Iraq last year. But they do not have the same record as Italy. UAE have played only one World Cup in 1990 and lost all matches.
The World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. It will start on June 11. Iran are set to play New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles four days later.
