Fifa responds after Donald Trump envoy called for Italy to replace Iran at World Cup

Lewis Henderson
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:25:06 +0000

Fifa has issued a response after Donald Trump's envoy called for Italy to replace Iran at this summer's World Cup

Paolo Zampolli put forward the idea to both the US President and Fifa President Gianni Infantino, arguing that the four-time champions deserve inclusion despite failing to qualify through conventional means.

However, Fifa has firmly dismissed the proposal, pointing to remarks Infantino made last week, according to the BBC.

"The Iranian team is coming, for sure," the Fifa President stated.

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Infantino expressed hope that circumstances would improve before the tournament, adding: "But Iran has to come if they are to represent their people.

"They have qualified... They really want to play, and they should play."

Zampolli reportedly told the Financial Times: "I confirm I have suggested to Trump and 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."

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His proposal comes amid the ongoing conflict following America and Israel's joint military action against Iran, which has cast uncertainty over the Middle Eastern nation's World Cup participation.

Zampolli's plan is reportedly intended to help mend relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, whose relationship has been strained following the US President's criticism of Pope Leo XIV over the Iran conflict.

Iran secured their spot at the tournament by finishing among the eight qualifying nations from the Asian Football Confederation.

Italy, by contrast, failed to earn one of the 16 places allocated to European teams, marking a catastrophic third successive World Cup absence for the 2021 European champions.

The Italians lost on penalties against Bosnia and Herzegovina after the scoreline ended 1-1.

If it were not for Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma's heroics, the contest likely would have been settled in normal time.

The Iranian football federation issued a statement on Wednesday confirming its full intention to compete in the tournament.

Fifa's regulations grant the organisation complete authority over any decisions should a participating nation withdraw from the competition.

The tournament kicks off on June 11 across venues in the United States, Canada and Mexico, culminating in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.

Iran will begin their campaign against New Zealand on June 15 before facing Belgium six days later on June 21.

Their group stage concludes with a match against Egypt on June 26.

Under Fifa's rulebook, the governing body retains "sole discretion" regarding any action should Iran choose to boycott the competition.