Trump Envoy Proposes Italy Swap

A special envoy of United States President Donald Trump has reportedly urged FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The report, citing unnamed sources, links the proposal to strained diplomatic relations involving Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following what was described as an escalation of tensions connected to Iran-related geopolitical developments. It also suggests that the initiative was intended, in part, to address friction in US–Italy relations.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli confirmed to the Financial Times that he had presented the proposal to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He stated that Italy’s inclusion would be appropriate given its footballing heritage and status as a four-time world champion, adding that seeing the “Azzurri” compete in the tournament hosted in the United States would be a significant prospect.

No immediate comment was issued by the White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), or the Asian Football Confederation in response to media requests.

Italy’s men’s national team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after losing 4–1 on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final in March. This marks the third consecutive World Cup the four-time champions have missed.

Iran, meanwhile, secured qualification for a fourth successive World Cup last year. However, following reported military strikes involving the United States and Israel in Iran at the end of February, FIFA was asked to relocate Iran’s three group-stage matches from the United States to Mexico.

In response, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said during a visit to Iran’s training camp in Turkey last month that all fixtures would proceed according to the established schedule, while also reaffirming support for Iran’s World Cup preparations.

Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj stated during a press briefing in Tehran that the national team was continuing its preparations. He added that the federation remains bound by governmental decisions and that the current priority is to maintain full readiness for the tournament.

Under FIFA regulations, if a qualified team withdraws, the governing body has discretion to select a replacement team. In such a scenario, the Asian Football Confederation would likely advocate for another Asian nation to take Iran’s place. The United Arab Emirates, which lost to Iraq in last November’s play-offs, has been mentioned among possible candidates, although its World Cup experience is limited to a single appearance in 1990, when it lost all three group matches.

The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, beginning on 11 June. Iran is scheduled to open its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June.

Iran’s participation, however, remains subject to government approval. Youth and Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali has stated that the final decision rests with the authorities, including the Supreme National Security Council. He confirmed that player safety in the United States would be a key condition for participation, while emphasising that preparations would continue regardless of geopolitical circumstances.