Several top Italian officials have rejected a suggestion from U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli that Italy replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup.
With Iran's place at the tournament still up in the air amid a war with the United States, Zampolli said he had floated the idea of Italy stepping in to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
"I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion," Zampolli told the Financial Times.
Italy lost on penalty kicks to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their European qualifying playoff on March 31, failing to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive time.
According to several top Italian officials, that defeat should be the end of Italy's World Cup hopes.
