Trump Envoy Makes Formal Request to FIFA Over World Cup Participation
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now just 49 days away, a political intervention has stirred controversy over Iran's participation in the tournament. Donald Trump's special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has formally requested that FIFA replace Iran with Italy at this summer's global football event, citing ongoing Middle East tensions.
Iran's Qualification and Italy's Absence
Iran successfully qualified for the World Cup, which is scheduled to commence on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Iranian team is set to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before taking on Egypt in Seattle. In contrast, Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup after a disappointing play-off loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March.
Zampolli, an Italian native and envoy to former President Trump, told the Financial Times: "I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. It would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion."
FIFA's Firm Stance and Political Backdrop
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has repeatedly insisted that Iran will compete as planned, despite Trump's public comments that it would not be "appropriate" for Iran to participate due to safety concerns. Infantino recently stated: "We want Iran to play, and Iran will play at the World Cup. There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represent their people – both those living in Iran and those living abroad."
Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani reinforced this position, telling reporters that the country remains "fully prepared" to compete. The conflict in the Middle East, now in its 55th day, has added a layer of geopolitical tension to the sporting event.
Italy's Football Crisis and Unlikely Replacement
Italy, despite being the joint second most successful side in World Cup history and the reigning European champions after winning Euro 2020, is currently in a state of turmoil. Following their qualification failure, manager Gennaro Gattuso stepped down, football federation president Gabriele Gravina resigned, and legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon left his role as delegation chief.
Zampolli's request is considered extremely unlikely to succeed, given FIFA's clear commitment to Iran's participation. Infantino, who awarded Trump a FIFA Peace Prize in December, has resisted all suggestions to alter World Cup plans, including calls to move Iran's fixtures to Mexico. He described the upcoming tournament as a "total party" and praised Iran as a "very, very strong team" after watching them play a friendly against Costa Rica in Turkey last month.
The World Cup organising bodies appear determined to proceed without changes, emphasising sport's role in uniting nations despite political disagreements. As the countdown to kick-off continues, all indications point to Iran taking their place on the global stage as originally scheduled.
