Washington — A special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump has formally proposed that Italy replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing both sporting credentials and diplomatic motives behind the suggestion.
Paolo Zampolli, identified as a Trump confidant and former model agent who facilitated the introduction between Trump and his wife Melania, confirmed to the Financial Times that he recommended Italy as a substitute for Iran during discussions with the president and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“I can confirm that I suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy should replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli stated, according to multiple verified reports from German and international outlets.
The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to commence in June. Italy failed to qualify after losing a playoff semifinal to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March, marking their third consecutive absence from the World Cup finals.
Zampolli, who noted his Italian heritage, described the prospect of Italy playing in a U.S.-hosted tournament as “a dream,” arguing that the nation’s four World Cup titles justify its inclusion despite failing to qualify through competition.
“With four titles, they have the reputation that warrants inclusion,” he said.
The proposal emerges amid heightened scrutiny over Iran’s participation due to its ongoing conflict with Israel and regional tensions involving the United States. While Iranian officials have expressed confidence in their team’s attendance, FIFA President Infantino has repeatedly affirmed that Iran will compete, stating on CNBC’s Invest in America Forum that “the Iranian team will definitely participate” and adding, “The Iranian team is coming for sure.”
Iran’s team has reportedly begun preparations, including training camps and friendly matches in Turkey, as reported by German press outlets covering their pre-tournament activities.
No official response has been issued by the U.S. Government, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, or the Iranian Football Federation regarding Zampolli’s proposal.
Analysts note that the suggestion appears linked to efforts to mend strained relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The two leaders have exchanged public criticisms following Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV, which Meloni condemned, prompting a reciprocal exchange of criticism.
Zampolli told the Financial Times that repairing the U.S.-Italy relationship was a background motivation for the proposal, referencing the recent diplomatic friction between the two nations.
Despite the envoy’s advocacy, FIFA’s stance remains firm on Iran’s participation, with Infantino maintaining that the team has secured its place through the Asian qualifying process and will attend the tournament in North America.
As of now, Iran remains on track to compete in the 2026 World Cup, with no indication from FIFA or CONCACAF that the qualification standings will be altered to accommodate Italy’s request.
The situation underscores the intersection of sports and international diplomacy, where tournament invitations can become entangled in broader geopolitical considerations, even as governing bodies emphasize sporting merit as the primary criterion for participation.
Readers are encouraged to follow official channels for updates on team qualifications and any potential changes to the tournament roster as the June kickoff approaches.
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