Trump Envoy Proposes Italy Replace Iran at World Cup as Political Tensions Spill Into Football

A U.S. envoy to President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after reportedly suggesting that FIFA replace Iran with Italy at the upcoming World Cup, according to the Financial Times.

Paolo Zampolli said it would be a “dream” to see Italy—four-time World Cup winners—take part in the tournament hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite the team failing to qualify after a playoff defeat last month.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli said, adding that Italy “has the pedigree to justify inclusion.”

The proposal, the report said, was also linked to efforts to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following political disagreements tied to comments on the Iran war.

Italy’s national team has now missed three consecutive World Cups after losing a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in qualification.

Meanwhile, Iran’s participation remains politically sensitive due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel since February 28, raising earlier questions about its World Cup status.

Iran’s football federation (FFIRI) previously said in April that it was “negotiating” with FIFA to relocate its matches from the United States to Mexico.

However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino later clarified that Iran remains part of the tournament.

“Iran will be at the World Cup and they will play where they are supposed to be, according to the draw,” he told AFP.

Zampolli, an Italian-American businessman and former modelling agent, is also known for claiming he introduced Donald Trump to Melania Trump.

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