Trump envoy urges FIFA to swap Iran for Italy at World Cup
An envoy for Donald Trump has called on FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the upcoming World Cup. Paolo Zampolli, a US special envoy, expressed his desire to see Italy participate despite their recent failure to qualify. The move is reportedly aimed at mending relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to the ongoing debate about Iran’s participation.
Match highlights
- Paolo Zampolli confirmed he suggested to Trump and Gianni Infantino that Italy should replace Iran at the World Cup.
- Zampolli described it as a “dream” to see Italy, a four-time World Cup winner, play in the tournament hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.
- Italy missed out on World Cup qualification after losing a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final.
- Iran’s participation has been questioned due to the ongoing war with the US and Israel that began on February 28.
- Gianni Infantino stated that Iran will be at the World Cup and play according to the official draw.
