A U.S. Special envoy to Donald Trump has formally requested that FIFA replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup, according to multiple verified reports. Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-born businessman residing in New York and serving as a special envoy for global partnerships, confirmed he has approached both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino with the proposal.
“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli told the Financial Times. “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.”
The request comes amid reported tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which sources indicate stem from the U.S. President’s public criticism of Pope Leo XIV during the ongoing Iran conflict. According to the Financial Times, the proposal is part of a broader diplomatic effort to repair relations between the two leaders.
Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup has been complicated by its request to FIFA to relocate its matches from the United States to Mexico, citing geopolitical concerns related to the Iran conflict. Iranian officials have stated they remain prepared to participate in the tournament, though no official confirmation of their withdrawal has been issued by FIFA or the Iranian Football Federation.
Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after losing a playoff final to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March 2026, marking their third consecutive absence from the tournament. The Azzurri last appeared in a World Cup in 2014, when they were eliminated in the group stage.
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches scheduled across all three nations. Italy has won four World Cup titles (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006), tying them with Germany for second-most all-time behind Brazil.
As of April 23, 2026, FIFA has not responded publicly to Zampolli’s request. The White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, and Iran’s football federation did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters.
The proposal remains unverified as an official FIFA consideration, and no timeline has been established for any potential decision on Iran’s participation or Italy’s possible inclusion.
Stay updated on Archysport for the latest developments regarding the 2026 World Cup and international football news.
