23.04.2026 20:33
It was claimed that US President Donald Trump's special envoy Paolo Zampolli applied to FIFA, at Trump's request, to include Italy in the World Cup instead of Iran. It was stated that Trump's move aimed to improve relations with the Meloni government, with which he has recently had a falling out.
From the administration team of US President Donald Trump, a radical move has come that will resonate in the football world and the international political arena.
ALLEGATIONS OF ITALY REPLACING IRAN
It has been claimed that Trump's special envoy Paolo Zampolli, in line with Trump's wishes, has made an official call to FIFA to exclude Iran from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled for the coming months, and include Italy instead.
EFFORT TO THAW RELATIONS WITH MELONI
According to a report by the Financial Times, this request from Trump's camp is not just a sporting preference but also carries a diplomatic strategy. Tensions had risen between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after his remarks targeting Pope Leo XIV during tensions with Iran. The report suggests that the initiative to include Italy in the tournament may aim to mend relations with the Meloni government.
ITALY LOST IN THE FINAL MATCH
Italy, which boasts many valuable stars in its squad, lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in a play-off final in March, failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time.
IRAN CONTINUES PREPARATIONS
On the other hand, Iran's camp is not backing down regarding participation in the tournament. Although the Tehran administration had previously requested its matches be moved to Mexico instead of the US, it made a statement last Wednesday emphasizing that preparations for the organization are ongoing and that they will take part in the tournament.