Italy to replace Iran at World Cup 2026? Trump envoy’s shock proposal
(Courtesy : Getty)
Iran’s participation in the World Cup is increasingly becoming doubtful.
According to the Financial Times, a senior adviser to US President Donald Trump has requested that FIFA replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup.
US President Donald Trump’s envoy makes shock proposal for FIFA World Cup 2026
According to the FT, which cited people acquainted with the situation, the idea is an attempt to mend fences between Trump and Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, after the two clashed over the American president’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV over 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 at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the FT.
Following a 4-1 penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their qualifying playoff final, Italy were shocked in March to miss out on the World Cup for the third consecutive year.
Iran qualified for the World Cup for the fourth time in a row last year, but asked FIFA to move the team’s three group matches from the United States to Mexico following the start of the conflict.
During a visit to an Iran squad training camp in Turkey last month, FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered the team assistance with tournament preparations and stated that all matches will proceed as planned.
According to Article Six of the World Cup regulations, FIFA is free to call up any country to fill the vacancy; it is up to them to decide which country would enter if the Iranian government withdrew the team.
Where will Iran play all their WC games?
Their group stage matches will take place in the USA.
Which World Cup group are Iran in?
They are in group G.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.