Trump Envoy Asks FIFA to Replace Iran With Italy in 2026 World Cup A top envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has formally requested that FIFA replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, according to multiple verified reports. The proposal, made by U.S. Special envoy Paolo Zampolli, aims to repair strained relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following a public disagreement over comments regarding Pope Leo XIV and the Iran conflict. Zampolli confirmed the suggestion in interviews with the Financial Times and Fox News, stating, “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 observe the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.” 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. Despite this, Zampolli argued that Italy’s historical success—four World Cup titles—warrants special consideration for inclusion. FIFA has not publicly responded to the request. The White House, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and Iran’s football federation (FFIRI) also did not issue immediate comments when contacted by Reuters and other outlets. Iran, meanwhile, has stated it remains prepared to participate in the tournament and plans to attend, according to reports cited by the Financial Times. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches scheduled across numerous cities in all three nations. The tournament is set to begin in June 2026. The proposal has drawn attention for its unusual blend of sports diplomacy and international politics, highlighting how athletic events can develop into entangled in broader geopolitical efforts. Whether FIFA will consider the request remains uncertain, as the organization typically adheres strictly to qualification results unless extraordinary circumstances arise—none of which have been formally declared in this case.
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