By: Osabuohien Imuetinyanosa
A senior envoy representing Donald Trump has formally approached FIFA with a request to substitute Iran with Italy in the forthcoming World Cup, as reported by the Financial Times.
The initiative is attributed to Paolo Zampolli, who openly acknowledged presenting the suggestion to both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. He expressed a strong preference for Italy—renowned four-time champions—to feature in a tournament being staged in the United States.
This development is additionally interpreted as a diplomatic effort aimed at mending deteriorated relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following tensions arising from remarks connected to the Iran conflict.
No formal reaction has been issued by the White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, or the Asian Football Confederation concerning the suggestion.
Italy’s national side recently failed to secure qualification for the tournament after a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, extending their absence to a third consecutive edition. In contrast, Iran successfully earned qualification and is making preparations for a fourth successive appearance.
Amid the ongoing hostilities, Iran had earlier appealed for its group-stage fixtures to be relocated from the United States to Mexico. Nevertheless, Infantino had already affirmed that the match schedule would remain unchanged, while also pledging assistance to the Iranian squad.
Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s football federation, stated that the team continues its preparations while remaining subject to directives from governing authorities.
In the event of a withdrawal by Iran, FIFA retains the authority to designate a replacement nation in accordance with its regulations. The Asian Football Confederation is anticipated to advocate for an alternative representative from the region, with the United Arab Emirates emerging as a potential option, although it does not possess Italy’s historical stature in the competition.
