Donald Trump responds when asked if Italy could replace Iran at 2026 World Cup
US President Donald Trump has weighed in on an unexpected World Cup controversy, as uncertainty around Iran’s participation in the 2026 tournament begins to intersect with politics.
Speaking during a White House press briefing, Trump was asked about a proposal suggesting Italy could replace Iran an idea that has gained attention despite having no official backing.
A Proposal Without Precedent
The suggestion originated with US envoy Paolo Zampolli, who, according to the Financial Times, raised the possibility with both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
“I can confirm that I have suggested to Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy take Iran’s place at the World Cup,” Zampolli said. “As an Italian native, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri competing in a tournament hosted by the United States. With four titles, they have the history and stature to warrant inclusion.”
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While the idea has sparked discussion, FIFA has given no indication it is being considered. Tournament rules do not typically allow for last-minute replacements outside of formal qualification processes, making such a scenario highly unusual.
Trump Caught Off Guard
Asked directly about the proposal, Trump appeared surprised and responded in a light-hearted manner.
“I don’t think about it too much,” he said, drawing laughter from reporters. He added: “That’s an interesting question. You know what, let me give that a little thought. Is that what they’re doing? They’re thinking about replacing them?”
He then turned to Secretary of State Marco Rubio for further clarification.
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Security Concerns, Not a Ban
Rubio pushed back on the idea that the United States had blocked Iran from competing, instead pointing to potential complications involving travel permissions for non-playing staff.
“Nothing from the US has told them they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be with their athletes, it would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps). We may not be able to let them in, but not the athletes themselves,” Rubio said.
He emphasized that the replacement theory remains speculative: “I don’t know where that’s coming from, other than speculation that Iran may decide not to come and that Italy would fill their spot. But if they decide not to come on their own, that’s because they decide not to come.”
“What they can’t bring is a bunch of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend they’re journalists and athletic trainers,” he added.
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Geopolitics Cloud the Tournament
The uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation is tied to broader tensions between Washington and Tehran. Although a temporary ceasefire is in place, disputes over key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz continue to strain relations, with ripple effects on global energy markets.
Because all of Iran’s group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in the United States, questions remain about whether the full delegation would be granted entry if tensions escalate.
Iran are currently set to face New Zealand on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt later in the group stage.
Italy Watching from the Outside
Italy, meanwhile, will not be part of the tournament after failing to qualify extending their absence to a third consecutive World Cup following a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina. They are also among the highest-ranked teams to miss out, which has partly fueled the speculative discussion around a potential replacement.
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No Changes Expected For Now
For now, there is no indication that FIFA is considering any changes to the tournament lineup. Any scenario involving a replacement would likely require extraordinary circumstances.
What the episode does highlight, however, is how quickly global politics can intersect with international sport even before a ball has been kicked.
Sources: Financial Times, White House press briefing, Clash Report
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