The latest controversy has emerged ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a proposal by a prominent US official putting Iran’s involvement in the spotlight. According to a report in the Financial Times, an envoy of Donald Trump has suggested that Italy should replace Iran in the tournament.

The suggestion, reportedly made to Gianni Infantino, has added a political dimension to an already sensitive situation involving travel concerns and geopolitical tensions. Iran previously raised the possibility of moving its matches away from the United States due to the ongoing conflict, but FIFA has so far said the schedule will remain unchanged.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli confirmed the suggestion while speaking to the Financial Times, describing it as both a football and personal aspiration.

“I confirm that I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA President Gianni) Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I am an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri in a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify their inclusion,” Zampolli said.

The proposal has also attracted attention due to Italy’s absence from the tournament. The four-time world champions failed to qualify after losing the playoff, This marks the third consecutive time they have missed the World Cup, an astonishing feat for one of football’s traditional powerhouses.

However, the idea remains only a suggestion at this stage, with no official response from FIFA or other governing bodies.

Will Iran play FIFA World Cup 2026?

For now, Iran is still scheduled to participate in the tournament. The team has already qualified and is set to play its group-stage matches in the United States, with matches scheduled to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Despite earlier concerns about travel and requests to move matches to Mexico, FIFA has indicated that all games will take place as planned. Gianni Infantino also confirmed during a recent visit to the Iranian camp that preparations are continuing as usual.

Iranian officials have taken a similar stance and said the team will abide by FIFA’s final decision while continuing their preparations for the tournament.

Can Italy replace Iran in the FIFA World Cup?

Any potential replacement will ultimately be decided by FIFA.. Under tournament rules, if a qualified nation withdraws the governing body has the right to select a replacement team.

However, this process is not straightforward. Typically, continental unions insist on replacement from within their region. In this case, the Asian Football Confederation would likely argue for another Asian team to take Iran’s place.

This makes Italy’s inclusion very unlikely unless FIFA makes an extraordinary call. Despite their history and four World Cup titles, Italy were unable to qualify via the standard route, weakening their case.

The tournament is scheduled to start on June 11, but for now the situation remains unchanged. Iran is still part of the competition, and any decision to change this will require significant developments in the coming weeks.

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