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Report States US Envoy Floats Italy as Possible Iran Replacement for World Cup
(MENAFN) A senior envoy to US President Donald Trump has reportedly suggested that Italy could take Iran’s place in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, according to reports citing informed sources.
The proposal is described as part of broader diplomatic dynamics involving tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which were reportedly influenced by recent political disagreements linked to comments on the Iran conflict.
“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri (Italian national team) at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” US special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the FT.
At the same time, Iranian officials have reaffirmed that the national team is fully prepared to participate in the 2026 tournament in the United States. A government spokesperson stated that relevant ministries have completed all necessary arrangements to ensure the team’s participation.
FIFA has not issued any formal response to the reported proposal. However, its president recently indicated confidence that Iran will compete, stating in remarks at a conference in Washington that “The Iranian team is coming, for sure,” according to reports.
The White House and the US State Department did not comment on the matter when asked, as noted in the report.
The proposal is described as part of broader diplomatic dynamics involving tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which were reportedly influenced by recent political disagreements linked to comments on the Iran conflict.
“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri (Italian national team) at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” US special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the FT.
At the same time, Iranian officials have reaffirmed that the national team is fully prepared to participate in the 2026 tournament in the United States. A government spokesperson stated that relevant ministries have completed all necessary arrangements to ensure the team’s participation.
FIFA has not issued any formal response to the reported proposal. However, its president recently indicated confidence that Iran will compete, stating in remarks at a conference in Washington that “The Iranian team is coming, for sure,” according to reports.
The White House and the US State Department did not comment on the matter when asked, as noted in the report.
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