7M - Italy Minister Dismisses Iran World Cup Replacement Proposal

Italy's Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti has firmly rejected a proposal suggesting Italy replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the idea as shameful, according to a report from Italy's state news agency ANSA on April 24.

The suggestion originated from Paolo Zampolli, an envoy for US President Donald Trump, who reportedly requested Italy's admission to next year's tournament despite the Italian national team failing to secure qualification through on-field competition.

FIFA has not issued an official public statement, but sources cited by ANSA indicated the governing body sees no grounds for altering the tournament lineup. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is working to ensure Iran remains among the 48 teams set to compete and expressed confidence the Iranian squad will participate.

Giorgetti stated, "Today I read that Trump's envoy asked for it: I find it shameful. I would be ashamed," according to local media coverage.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also addressed the matter, denying reports that Iran could be replaced by Italy at the 2026 World Cup. He clarified that the United States has not taken any action to prevent Iranian athletes from entering the country.

Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi had previously dismissed the concept, emphasizing that World Cup participation must be earned through sporting merit. "An Italy repechage at the World Cup? It's not appropriate, we qualify on the pitch," Abodi said, adding that such a move by FIFA was neither feasible nor suitable.

Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee, echoed this stance, stating, "I'd be offended. You have to deserve it to go to the World Cup."

The Iranian Embassy in Rome responded to the proposal via the social media platform X, asserting that football "belongs to the people, not to politicians." The embassy added that Italy achieved greatness through sporting achievement, not political advantage, and characterized the attempt to exclude Iran as evidence of US "moral bankruptcy."

Questions persist regarding Iran's ability to compete in matches scheduled within the United States. The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will mark the first edition of the tournament featuring an expanded 48-team format.