Trump Spokesperson Proposes Replacing Iran with Italy in 2026 World Cup

10:06 / 23.04.2026·179·Sport

In brief

Paolo Zampolli, a special representative for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, has sparked international debate by proposing that Italy replace Iran in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Zampolli confirmed he reached out to both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, arguing that the four-time champions deserve a spot in the tournament despite failing to qualify on the pitch. While the proposal has gained traction in global media, Iran is currently officially drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The suggestion remains highly controversial, as it challenges established qualification results following Italy's competitive exit against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Trump representative proposes Italy to replace Iran at 2026 World Cup

Paolo Zampolli, a special representative for U.S. President Donald Trump, has come forward with an unexpected proposal regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His initiative has sparked widespread discussion within the football community.

Zampolli stated that he suggested to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino the idea of including the Italian national team in the World Cup in place of Iran. He has openly confirmed this stance.

- "I confirm that I have proposed to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino to include Italy in the World Cup instead of Iran," said Paolo Zampolli.

He emphasized his Italian heritage and noted that seeing his home country's team at the World Cup hosted in the United States is a personal dream. Furthermore, he believes Italy deserves to participate in the tournament as a four-time world champion.

- "I am Italian by origin, and it was my dream to see Italy at the tournament held in the USA. As four-time world champions, they deserve to participate in the tournament," said Paolo Zampolli.

This information has been reported by prestigious international publications such as The Guardian and the Financial Times. Consequently, the proposal has garnered significant global attention.

According to current plans, Iran's national team is scheduled to compete in Group G of the World Cup alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. This group has already been officially formed.

Italy, meanwhile, lost its chance to qualify for the World Cup after being defeated by Bosnia and Herzegovina during the qualification stages. Therefore, they currently remain excluded from the tournament.

In short, this proposal could trigger serious debates in international football. All eyes are now on FIFA and official governing bodies to see how they will respond to the suggestion.

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