Unlikely Pitch from an Italian-Born Envoy (Image Credits: Flickr)
Rome, April 23 – A proposal by a top U.S. envoy to swap Italy for Iran at the 2026 World Cup has met with dismissal from Italian officials and minimal interest from fans. Paolo Zampolli, President Donald Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships, confirmed he urged both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino to make the change. The idea surfaced as Italy laments missing a fourth straight tournament while Iran presses ahead despite regional conflicts.[1][2]
Unlikely Pitch from an Italian-Born Envoy
Paolo Zampolli, an Italian native serving in the Trump administration, openly acknowledged his role in the suggestion. “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA president Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” he told the Financial Times. “I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”[2]
The overture partly aimed to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, strained by the president’s criticisms of Pope Leo XIV over the Iran war. Zampolli holds no official ties to soccer governance, yet he positioned Italy’s storied history – four World Cup victories – as grounds for a special exception. This marks at least the second time he has floated such an idea; four years earlier, as a UN ambassador, he called for Iran’s disqualification over human rights concerns, a plea FIFA ignored.[1]
Underwhelmed Response in Italy
Reactions across Italy ranged from apathy to outright rejection. Fans showed a mix of embarrassment and indifference, while major sports outlets offered only brief mentions, noting the proposal’s familiar ring. Italy’s Football Federation (FIGC) declined to comment.[1]
Government figures voiced strong opposition. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi stated, “Firstly it is not possible, secondly it is not appropriate… You qualify on the pitch.” Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti labeled the notion “shameful.” Prominent coach Gianni De Biasi dismissed it as improbable, arguing any vacancy from Iran’s group would likely go to the next Asian qualifier, such as the United Arab Emirates. “Furthermore, I believe Italy doesn’t need Trump’s support on an issue like this. I think we can manage on our own,” he added.[1]
FIFA Stands Firm on Iran’s Participation
FIFA has signaled no interest in altering its lineup. Sources close to the organization confirmed no plans exist for a swap, pointing to Infantino’s recent assurances. “The Iranian team is coming, for sure,” the FIFA president said last week. “Iran has to come if they are to represent their people. They really want to play, and they should play. Sport should be outside of politics.”[3][1]
Iran, ranked lower than Italy but qualified for four straight World Cups, faces logistical hurdles. The team requested moving its U.S.-based group games – against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium four days later there, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 – to Mexico amid the war with the U.S. and Israel. FIFA denied the request. Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, affirmed preparations are underway, though subject to government directives.[1]
Qualification Realities and FIFA Rules
Italy’s absence stems from consistent qualifying struggles, culminating in a 4-1 penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina last month. As the 12th-ranked nation globally, the Azzurri stand as the top team sidelined. FIFA regulations grant the body sole discretion to fill vacancies if a qualifier withdraws or faces exclusion, without mandating continental precedence.[2]
Neither the White House nor Iran’s federation responded to inquiries. With the tournament opening June 11 across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, the focus remains on sporting merit over diplomatic maneuvers. Italy’s path back to the global stage likely lies in future qualifiers, not extraordinary interventions.[3]