Special envoy of Donald Trump proposes replacing Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup
Paolo Zampolli, special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, has proposed replacing the Iranian national team with Italy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“I confirm that I suggested to Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup. I am Italian by origin, and it would be a dream to see Italy at the tournament held in the USA. With four titles, they have all the qualities needed to deserve a spot at the global championship,” Zampolli said, as reported by The Guardian citing the Financial Times.
In Group G of the World Cup, Iran is scheduled to face Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt.
As a reminder, the Italian national team lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the decisive qualification match and did not qualify for the tournament.
Source: Championat
