google-site-verification: googlec7193c3de77668c9.html

World Cup 2026: No Fifa plan to swap Iran and Italy after Trump envoy asks for switch

Advertisements

Fifa has no plans to replace Iran with Italy at this summer’s World Cup according to sources, after the switch was proposed by US president Donald Trump’s special envoy.

There has been ongoing uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the tournament because of the war with US and Israel.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli told the Financial Times, external: “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup.

“I’m an Italian native and 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 did not comment officially on Zampolli’s suggestion but highlighted a statement made by Fifa president Gianni Infantino last week where he said: “The Iranian team is coming, for sure.”

The FT reported Zampolli’s plan was suggested to smooth things over between the US and Italy after Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticised Trump over his comments towards Pope Leo XIV.

Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for their third successive World Cup following a qualification play-off defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.

Iran are due to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15 and 21 June respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.

The tournament, which begins on 11 June, is being hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.

Under Fifa rules, the world governing body has “sole discretion” on what happens if a team withdraws or is excluded from the competition.

Article six of its World Cup regulations also says: “Fifa may decide to replace the Participating Member Association in question with another association.”


BBC News

Views: 0

See also  UFC: Michael Bisping tells Tom Aspinall to ignore noise around career after double eye surgery

Check Also

Michael O’Neill: Northern Ireland boss on future with Blackburn

O’Neill’s contract with the Irish Football Association (IFA) runs until 2028 and he says there …

MLB: Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert takes 108mph catch with his shirt

Seattle Mariners’ pitcher Logan Gilbert “wore one” as he stops a sizzling line drive with …

Ireland make one change for France game in Clermont

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand makes one change to his starting XV for Saturday’s Women’s …

Leave a Reply

Available for Amazon Prime