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US Envoy Reportedly Pushes FIFA to Swap Iran for Italy at World Cup
(MENAFN) A US special envoy is reportedly urging FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the upcoming World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to reports, Paolo Zampolli, who heads the Office of Global Partnerships at the US State Department, has been lobbying for Italy’s inclusion despite the team failing to qualify for the tournament for a third consecutive time. Italy’s elimination reportedly triggered domestic backlash and leadership changes within its football federation.
Zampolli said he aims to ensure that Italian fans are present at the tournament in the United States and expressed support for Italy’s participation over Iran, stating his preference for seeing Italian players compete on home soil. His comments were first reported by international media outlets.
The situation comes amid wider political tensions surrounding Iran’s participation, with uncertainty reportedly growing due to broader geopolitical developments. Iranian officials have suggested alternative arrangements for matches, including relocating fixtures, while FIFA leadership has maintained that Iran is expected to take part.
Reports also suggest that the lobbying effort has been linked by some analysts to broader diplomatic tensions between the United States and European partners, as well as domestic political considerations within the US ahead of upcoming elections.
Separately, additional media reports have indicated that US officials have warned European counterparts about possible travel restrictions related to the tournament, though no formal policy changes have been announced.
According to reports, Paolo Zampolli, who heads the Office of Global Partnerships at the US State Department, has been lobbying for Italy’s inclusion despite the team failing to qualify for the tournament for a third consecutive time. Italy’s elimination reportedly triggered domestic backlash and leadership changes within its football federation.
Zampolli said he aims to ensure that Italian fans are present at the tournament in the United States and expressed support for Italy’s participation over Iran, stating his preference for seeing Italian players compete on home soil. His comments were first reported by international media outlets.
The situation comes amid wider political tensions surrounding Iran’s participation, with uncertainty reportedly growing due to broader geopolitical developments. Iranian officials have suggested alternative arrangements for matches, including relocating fixtures, while FIFA leadership has maintained that Iran is expected to take part.
Reports also suggest that the lobbying effort has been linked by some analysts to broader diplomatic tensions between the United States and European partners, as well as domestic political considerations within the US ahead of upcoming elections.
Separately, additional media reports have indicated that US officials have warned European counterparts about possible travel restrictions related to the tournament, though no formal policy changes have been announced.
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