The idea of replacing Iran with Italy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sparked debate after a suggestion from a top envoy linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Paolo Zampolli, identified as a Trump envoy, confirmed to the Financial Times that he proposed the swap to both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Zampolli stated clearly that he wants Italy to replace Iran, adding that as an Italian native, it would be a “dream” to notice the Azzurri play in a World Cup hosted by the United States. He similarly emphasized Italy’s four World Cup titles as justification for their inclusion, citing their pedigree.
The proposal emerged amid political tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, particularly after Trump’s public comments toward Pope Leo XIV during the Iran war situation. Reuters reported that Zampolli’s suggestion was aimed at smoothing relations between the U.S. And Italy following those criticisms. Despite the proposal, FIFA has made it clear that no official decision has been taken to replace Iran. Infantino stated last week that “The Iranian team is coming, for sure,” affirming Iran’s participation in the tournament.
Iran has responded to the speculation by confirming its readiness to compete. Earlier, Iranian officials said they would decide on participation only after receiving guidance from FIFA regarding potential match relocations due to security concerns stemming from U.S. And Israeli airstrikes. However, Infantino later emphasized that FIFA expects Iran to play and pledged support to ensure safe conditions for the team. Iran remains qualified for the World Cup and is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and June 21, respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
Italy, did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup after losing a crucial playoff match to Bosnia and Herzegovina. As noted by Reuters and confirmed in BBC Sport coverage, Italy failed to secure a spot for their third consecutive World Cup. Despite being ranked 12th in the world by FIFA — the highest-ranked team not participating — Italy has no automatic right to entry under current regulations. Article six of FIFA’s World Cup regulations allows the governing body “sole discretion” to replace a participating member association if it withdraws or is excluded, but no such action has been initiated regarding Iran.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has consistently maintained that Iran will participate. Speaking in Washington last week, he said, “We hope that by then the situation will be a peaceful (one)…” while reiterating that the Iranian team is expected to play. FIFA has not commented officially on Zampolli’s suggestion but pointed to Infantino’s prior statements as evidence of their stance. The organization has not indicated any plans to pursue a replacement, despite the political overtures.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin on June 11 and will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran’s group stage matches are confirmed to accept place in Los Angeles and Seattle, with no changes announced to the schedule or venues as of now. Should Iran withdraw or be excluded — a scenario not currently indicated by any official body — FIFA would then have the authority to select a replacement under its regulations. Until such a circumstance arises, however, Iran remains on track to compete.
For now, the suggestion to replace Iran with Italy remains a political proposal without basis in competitive qualification or procedural action. Italy’s absence from the tournament is rooted in their failure to navigate the qualification playoffs, while Iran’s place is secured through athletic performance in the Asian qualifiers. FIFA’s position, as expressed by its leadership, prioritizes sporting integrity and confirmed participation over external political considerations. The next confirmed checkpoint is the official kickoff of the tournament on June 11, where Iran is expected to take the field as one of the 32 qualified nations.
Archysport will continue to monitor official communications from FIFA and team updates as the tournament approaches. Fans seeking verified information are encouraged to follow FIFA’s official channels and national team announcements for the latest developments regarding squad selections, match schedules, and any potential changes to participation status.
