A US special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has urged Donald Trump and FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup. Zampolli, who is of Italian descent, believes Italy, with its four titles, deserves a spot in the tournament following a disappointing loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The envoy sees Italy’s inclusion as a “dream” for the US-hosted event.
The proposal aims to mend relations between Trump and Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after disagreements over Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo XIV regarding the Iran conflict. Trump had previously mentioned that Iran’s football team would be “welcome” in the US but expressed concerns about their safety.
Despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirming Iran’s participation, there is uncertainty surrounding the team’s involvement due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Trump has not elaborated on the Iranian team’s attendance since his earlier comments. Infantino hopes for a peaceful resolution in Iran before the tournament begins to ensure the team’s safe participation.