New Delhi: A reported proposal from a special envoy of former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a suggestion to replace Iran with Italy in the tournament scheduled to begin on June 11.
According to reports, Trump’s envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has urged FIFA to consider including Italy in place of Iran. The proposal comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions and follows Trump’s recent criticism of Pope Leo XIV over his stance on U.S. immigration policies and opposition to war involving Iran.
In a statement cited by media reports, Zampolli said he had suggested to both Trump and Gianni Infantino that Italy be included in the tournament. “I am Italian, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four World Cup titles, they have a record that justifies inclusion,” he reportedly said.
Italy, a four-time world champion, failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a playoff penalty shootout. This marks the first time in FIFA World Cup history that a former champion has missed qualification for three consecutive editions.
Meanwhile, Iran successfully qualified for its fourth straight World Cup but has raised concerns over security following recent conflict in the region. Iranian authorities reportedly requested FIFA to shift their group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico. Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, indicated that ongoing tensions, including airstrikes involving the U.S. and Israel, could impact the team’s participation.
Earlier, when Infantino met Trump, he had assured that Iran would be welcomed to participate in the 2026 tournament. However, Trump later posted on his social media platform that while Iran’s national team is welcome, security concerns might make participation unsafe.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19. The reported proposal has triggered debate over the intersection of politics and sport, with no official response yet from FIFA.
