In a move that is raising eyebrows in the soccer community, U.S. envoy Paolo Zampolli has formally requested FIFA to consider replacing Iran with Italy in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The Financial Times reported that Zampolli made this suggestion to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, highlighting Italy's historical pedigree in football as justification for their inclusion.

“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 stated.

This proposal aims to navigate the complex political landscape that has developed between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Tensions escalated after Trump's remarks regarding Pope Leo XIV and the ongoing conflict with Iran, prompting Zampolli's maneuver as a means to restore diplomatic ties.

Meanwhile, Iran has already qualified for the World Cup and is preparing for its matches, which are set to take place in the U.S. amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. FIFA has maintained that the Iranian team will participate, with Infantino previously visiting the team and expressing support for their preparations.

Italy’s national team missed qualifying for the event for the third consecutive time, an outcome described by many as shocking given the nation's storied football history. Despite this, Zampolli's proposal remains purely hypothetical, as FIFA would ultimately need to decide any replacement based on its own regulations and considerations from continental confederations.

As preparations for the World Cup continue, it remains to be seen whether this proposal will gain traction or if Iran will indeed fulfill its commitment to participate in the tournament starting on June 11, 2026. The situation continues to evolve amid significant international scrutiny.