ROME: Italy has categorically ruled out any possibility of replacing Iran at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, after a suggestion by an American official linked to US President Donald Trump sparked controversy.
The proposal emerged from Paolo Zampolli, an Italian-American businessman serving as US special envoy for global partnerships, who raised the idea with both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
According to reports, Zampolli framed the suggestion as a contingency plan if Iran might withdraw from the tournament due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
However, Italian officials reacted swiftly and decisively, making it clear that such a substitution would neither be appropriate nor acceptable.
Italy’s Sports Minister Andrea Abodi dismissed the proposal outright, stating that it was “not possible” and “not a good idea.”
His remarks were echoed by Luciano Buonfiglio, who emphasised that qualification for the World Cup must be earned on merit. “You need to deserve to go to the World Cup,” he said, adding that he would feel “offended” by any attempt to bypass the established qualification system.
Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti went further, describing the suggestion as “shameful”.
Iran, for its part, has not withdrawn from the tournament and continues preparations to compete in the United States.
FIFA has reiterated that Iran’s group-stage matches—scheduled to take place near Los Angeles and in Seattle in June—will proceed as planned.
In a telephone interview, Zampolli insisted that his proposal was not politically motivated, describing it instead as a “dream” aimed at benefiting both Italians and Italian-Americans.
He argued that Italy’s historical success, including four World Cup titles, would justify its inclusion should a vacancy arise.
Despite this, the idea has found little support. Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, a setback that led to the resignation of the national team coach and the head of the Italian football federation.
The issue gained further attention when Trump was asked at the White House about the possibility of Iranian players being denied entry into the US. Initially dismissive, he later acknowledged the question as “interesting” and deferred to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
According to AP, Rubio clarified that there had been no directive preventing Iranian athletes from entering the country. However, he raised concerns about individuals accompanying the team, suggesting that some could pose security risks.
An Iranian government spokesperson recently stated that the national team is preparing for a “proud and successful participation” in the tournament.
