Italy rejects U.S ‘shameful’ World Cup replacement bid

April 25, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Italian sports officials have emphatically rejected a proposal from U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with ministers calling the idea "shameful" and "not appropriate." The suggestion came amid geopolitical tensions, which Zampolli suggested put Iran's participation "up in the air amid a war with the United States."

Zampolli, an Italian native, reportedly floated the idea to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. He cited Italy's rich footballing history and four World Cup titles as justification for their inclusion, despite the Azzurri failing to qualify for the tournament for a third consecutive time after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalty kicks in their European qualifying playoff on March 31.

Italian officials unanimous in rejection

The proposal met with swift and strong condemnation from Italy's political and sporting leadership. Italian sports minister Andrea Abodi was unequivocal in his dismissal. "Italy's possible re-qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has reportedly proposed to FIFA, is firstly not possible, and secondly, not appropriate. I don't know what comes first," Abodi told Sky News, adding a clear statement on sporting integrity: "Qualification is on the pitch."

Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), echoed this sentiment during an event in Rome, as reported by ANSA. "First of all, I don't think it's possible. Second, I'd feel offended. In order to go to the World Cup, you have to earn it." Italy's economy minister Giancarlo Giorgetti further underscored the nation's stance, calling the idea "shameful," according to USA Today.

Meanwhile, Iran, which was among the first teams to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, has affirmed its readiness to participate. A spokeswoman for the Iranian government stated that Iran is "fully prepared" to play at the tournament. The team has scheduled upcoming friendly matches in the United States, including against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

FIFA's World Cup regulations, specifically Article 6.7, grant the organization sole discretion to decide on a replacement if a Participating Member Association withdraws or is excluded. However, the Italian officials' strong reaction indicates a firm commitment to the principle of sporting qualification over any diplomatic or political intervention.

Sources: eu.usatoday.com