In a surprising diplomatic development, Paolo Zampolli, a top envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump, has reportedly urged FIFA to r
In a surprising diplomatic development, Paolo Zampolli, a top envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump, has reportedly urged FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Zampolli, an Italian-born businessman, confirmed that he suggested the swap to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
He argued that Italy’s “pedigree” as a four-time world champion justifies their inclusion, especially since they recently failed to qualify for a third consecutive tournament after a playoff loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The proposal is being framed as an attempt to mend strained ties between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following recent political disagreements over the Iran war.
Despite the high-profile push, the possibility of Italy taking Iran’s spot remains highly uncertain and faces significant legal and sporting hurdles.
While FIFA’s Article Six grants the organisation “sole discretion” to fill vacancies, most experts believe any replacement for Iran should come from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to maintain continental balance, with the United Arab Emirates being the most logical sporting successor.
Furthermore, FIFA President Infantino has consistently insisted that Iran will participate as scheduled, stating as recently as last week that the Iranian team is “coming, for sure”.
For its part, the Iranian Football Federation has confirmed it is fully preparing for “proud and successful participation” in the tournament despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and the recent conflict with the U.S. and Israel.
While Iran had previously requested to move its group matches from the United States to Mexico due to safety concerns—a request FIFA declined—the government in Tehran has since signalled its readiness to compete.
Unless Iran officially withdraws or is suspended by FIFA for regulatory violations, the prospect of Italy entering through the “back door” remains a controversial long shot.
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