Geneva, Apr 23 (V7N) — US special envoy Paolo Zampoli has reportedly proposed that Italy be included in the 2026 FIFA World Cup instead of Iran, according to reports cited by Reuters and Al Jazeera.

The information was originally published citing the Financial Times.

Proposal discussed with FIFA leadership

Zampoli is said to have raised the idea in discussions involving:

  • US President Donald Trump

  • Gianni Infantino

He argued that Italy, as a four-time world champion, deserves a place in the tournament.

Political context behind proposal

The report suggests the idea may be linked to efforts to improve diplomatic relations between the United States and Italy, particularly involving Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

It also mentions tensions following US criticism related to the Iran conflict, which allegedly strained relations between Washington and Rome.

FIFA position

Despite the proposal:

  • FIFA President Infantino has indicated that Iran is expected to participate

  • Iran has repeatedly confirmed its readiness for the tournament

  • FIFA has already rejected Iran’s request to relocate its group-stage matches

Tournament details

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by:

  • United States

  • Mexico

  • Canada

The tournament is scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Outlook

While the proposal has drawn attention internationally, there is currently no official confirmation from FIFA of any change to participating teams, and Iran remains listed as a qualified nation.

END/SMA/AJ