Report: Italy could replace Iran at World Cup as Trump envoy requests to FIFA

TL;DR

Italy may replace Iran at the World Cup following a request from a Trump envoy to FIFA. The proposal was made by Paolo Zampolli, who has approached both Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Key points

Italy could replace Iran at the World Cup
Request made by US special envoy Paolo Zampolli
Proposal presented to Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino

Mentioned in this story

Paolo ZampolliDonald TrumpGianni Infantino

ItalyIran

Report: Italy could replace Iran at World Cup as Trump envoy requests to FIFA

A remarkable diplomatic intervention has thrust Italian football back into the World Cup conversation, with a US special envoy confirming he has formally requested that FIFA replace Iran with Italy at this summer’s tournament.

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Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-born Trump envoy, told the Financial Times that he has personally approached both Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino with the proposal.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli said. “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.”

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 07: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks alongside President of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Gianni Infantino after unveiling the 2025 Club World Cup trophy in the Oval Office at the White House on March 07, 2025 in Washington, DC. President Trump signed an executive order establishing a White House Task Force for the 2026 World Cup. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)