Senior Italian politicians and sporting figures have strongly criticised a controversial proposal suggesting Italy could take Iran’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling the idea unrealistic and contrary to the principles of sport.
The suggestion, reportedly linked to a US envoy associated with former President Donald Trump, has been dismissed across Italy as “shameful” and “inappropriate”, with officials insisting that qualification for football’s biggest tournament must be earned on merit.
Italy’s Minister for Sport, Andrea Abodi, rejected the proposal outright, describing such a scenario as both “impossible” and “inappropriate”. Speaking to the Italian news agency LaPresse, he stressed that participation in the World Cup must be decided on the pitch rather than through political intervention.
Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti took a stronger stance, labelling the idea “shameful”. Meanwhile, Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee, echoed the criticism. “I’d be offended. You have to deserve it to go to the World Cup,” Buonfiglio said.
The proposal was first reported by the Financial Times, which said a US envoy had floated the possibility of Italy replacing Iran at the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Football figures also rejected the notion, emphasising the importance of sporting merit. Italian coach Gianni De Biasi described the idea as unrealistic, arguing that any replacement team should come through the established qualification system. “Italy does not need help from Trump,” he said.
David Aganzo, head of Spain’s footballers’ association and a former international players’ union president, similarly stressed that teams must earn their place through results. However, he acknowledged that wider political considerations could be influencing the discussion.
FIFA has not given any indication that the proposal is under consideration. Instead, it referred to comments made by its president, Gianni Infantino, who confirmed that Iran is expected to participate in the tournament. “Sport must remain separate from politics,” Infantino said, reiterating the organisation’s position on neutrality.
According to the Financial Times, the idea originated from Paolo Zampolli, a businessman and special envoy linked to Mr Trump. He reportedly suggested the move as part of broader diplomatic efforts, including improving relations with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Zampolli is said to have described the proposal as a “dream”, pointing to Italy’s history as four-time World Cup winners.
Despite this, the suggestion has gained little support within Italy, where it has largely been treated as a marginal issue by major sports media outlets.
Italy’s national team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup following a playoff defeat, marking the third consecutive time the country will miss the tournament—an unprecedented downturn for one of football’s most successful nations.
In contrast, Iranian football authorities have confirmed their intention to compete. Led by Mehdi Taj, preparations are reportedly underway, including plans for warm-up matches abroad despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Although the proposal has generated political discussion, it appears to lack any practical basis within FIFA’s rules. Across Italy, there is broad agreement that World Cup participation must be determined by sporting performance, not diplomatic negotiation.
