Iran's embassy in Italy condemned U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli's proposal to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup, calling it a sign of 'moral bankruptcy.' Zampolli suggested this idea to U.S. President Trump and FIFA President Infantino amid uncertainties surrounding Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Key points
U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli proposed replacing Iran with Italy at the World Cup.
Iran's embassy in Italy condemned the proposal as morally bankrupt.
Zampolli discussed the idea with U.S. President Trump and FIFA President Infantino.
Iran's status for the 2026 World Cup is uncertain amid geopolitical tensions.
FIFA President Infantino confirmed that Iran's team will participate.
Mentioned in this story
FIFAPaolo ZampolliDonald TrumpIranItaly
An effort by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup shows the “moral bankruptcy” of the U.S., according to Iran's embassy in Italy.
Zampolli made headlines this week when he said he had floated the idea to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
"I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion," Zampolli told the Financial Times.
Iran's status for the 2026 World Cup is still up in the air amid an ongoing war with the United States and Israel.
FIFA would have broad latitude to replace Iran if it withdraws, but FIFA president Gianni Infantino said last week that "the Iranian team is coming, for sure."
Spain – 17th appearance
Brazil – 23rd appearance
Q&A
Why did Iran's embassy call the U.S. envoy morally bankrupt?
Iran's embassy criticized U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli's proposal to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup, viewing it as a reflection of moral bankruptcy.
What was Paolo Zampolli's suggestion regarding the World Cup?
Paolo Zampolli suggested to U.S. President Trump and FIFA President Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup.
What is the current status of Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup?
Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain due to ongoing tensions with the U.S. and Israel.
What did FIFA President Gianni Infantino say about Iran's team?
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that 'the Iranian team is coming, for sure,' indicating that Iran will participate in the World Cup.
Related Articles
Sports
Social media reacts to Ohio State football draft picks, 2026 NFL Draft
Ohio State football shines in the 2026 NFL Draft with top picks!
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
No Ty Simpson for Arizona Cardinals as LA Rams select him 13th overall
Ty Simpson goes 13th overall to the Rams, leaving Cardinals to rethink strategy.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NFL
Vega Ioane Selected by Baltimore Ravens in First Round of NFL Draft
Baltimore Ravens select Vega Ioane with 14th pick in NFL Draft
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NFL
Why Carnell Tate is a perfect fit for Titans' offense
Tennessee Titans surprise with Carnell Tate selection at No. 4 in 2026 NFL Draft.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NFL·Recap
Micah Parsons trade results: Checking in on Packers and Cowboys after 2026 NFL Draft
"Football belongs to the people, not to politicians. Italy has achieved the greatness of football on the field, not thanks to political rents," it said.
"The attempt to exclude Iran from the World Cup only shows the 'moral bankruptcy' of the United States, which even fear the presence of 11 young Iranians on the playing field."