Donald Trump’s special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has claimed there is more than a 50 per cent chance that Italy could replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup, citing security concerns and visa difficulties surrounding Iranian participation.
According to reports from Tribuna, Zampolli, the U.S. special envoy for global partnerships and a close ally of President Trump, confirmed that he had directly suggested the swap to both the American president and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The proposal emerged amid heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as concerns over entry visas for Iranian nationals.
“I will meet Gianni Infantino in Miami for the Formula 1 GP this weekend. There shouldn’t be a World Cup without Italy, the decision is down to Infantino and Trump,” Zampolli said.
“On top of that, visas are very difficult to get now and we don’t want people coming in who could do some bad things. If you are sending people who are not welcome in the United States of America, then it’s better they don’t come.”
Iranian players are welcome, but Secretary Marco Rubio was clear on the fact we cannot allow in people who don’t love the United States of America. If Iran do not participate, I don’t know if we are prepared to bring anyone else in, but anything could happen.”
Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but discussions have emerged over a potential replacement scenario if Iran withdraws.
Iran have qualified for the tournament but their participation remains uncertain amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.
