Donald Trump’s special envoy, Italian Paolo Zampolli suggested to FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy replace Iran in the World Cup. He himself revealed the information in news to the British newspaper Financial Times on Wednesday. This Thursday, Italian ministers mocked the proposal, defining it as “shameful” and inappropriate.”
Because of the fighting in the Middle East and the war with the Americans, the Iranians were “recommended” by the US president not to be in the North American country for the competition due to the risk to their lives, despite “being welcome.”
“I read the news that Trump’s envoy asked FIFA. And it seems shameful to me. It would make me ashamed”, said Italy’s Minister of Economy, Giancarlo Giorgetti, in a clear statement that it is not fair to remove those who got their place on merit.
Eliminated in the playoff by Bosnia & Herzegovina in a penalty shootout, Italy will be absent from a World Cup for the third edition in a row. As it is the best ranked team outside of those classified, there is a maneuver for the four-time world champion to replace Iran, with its three games scheduled for stadiums in the United States and even with its presence “guaranteed” by FIFA.
“Classification takes place on the field”, criticized the Italian Sports Minister, Andrea Abodi, in response to LaPresse, saying that it is not possible for Italy to go to the World Cup in this way and defining the proposal revealed by Zampolli as “inappropriate.”
“I confirm that I suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran in the World Cup. I am Italian and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a tournament hosted in the USA. With four titles, they have the necessary CV to justify inclusion,” Milan-born Zampolli told the Financial Times. Officially, he is the United States President’s Special Envoy for Global Partnerships. Infantino was in the United States to participate in Semafor World Economy 2026, on April 15th.
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