A senior envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly proposed that Italy national football team replace Iran national football team at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The proposal was made by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli, who confirmed that he had suggested the idea to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Zampolli, an Italian native, said it would be a dream to see Italy compete at a World Cup hosted in the United States, highlighting the country’s rich football history, including four World Cup titles.
The reported move is also seen as part of broader diplomatic efforts to repair relations between Trump and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following tensions linked to recent geopolitical disagreements.
However, there has been no official response from FIFA, the White House, the Italian Football Federation, or the Asian Football Confederation regarding the suggestion.
Italy’s absence from the tournament follows a disappointing qualifying campaign, where they failed to secure a place after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a playoff match. This marks the third consecutive time the four-time world champions have missed out on the World Cup.
The proposal, if pursued, would likely spark significant debate within global football, given FIFA’s strict qualification rules and the potential implications for sporting integrity.
