A special envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup, according to the Financial Times.
Paolo Zampolli, Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships, said he suggested the idea to Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He said it would be a “dream” to see Italy play in the tournament, even though the country failed to qualify.
Italy missed out after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a qualification playoff. Iran has already qualified, but its participation has come under scrutiny because of the ongoing war involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Iran rejected the proposal, with its embassy in Rome saying football greatness should be earned on the pitch, not through political privilege.
FIFA has not backed the idea. Infantino has said Iran will play where it is assigned under the official World Cup draw.