Italy could still end up at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite failing to qualify. At least, that’s the idea floated by a Trump administration official in a proposal to FIFA and the U.S. president, according to the Financial Times and confirmed by Reuters.

The last-minute pitch comes from Paolo Zampolli, a longtime associate of Donald Trump who serves as a special envoy focused on global partnerships and acts as a de facto U.S. representative in Italy.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and (FIFA president Gianni) ​Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup,” Zampolli told the Financial Times. “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.”

A political play behind the proposal

According to reporting from the Financial Times, Zampolli’s initiative carries a diplomatic motive. It is seen as an attempt to ease tensions between Washington and Rome following a public clash involving Trump, Pope Leo XIV and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over the war with Iran.

The dispute strained relations between Trump and Meloni, who have long been viewed as political allies. Meloni defended the pontiff, while Trump responded with sharp criticism, saying, “I thought she had courage, but I was wrong.”

Tournament logistics already locked in

Zampolli’s proposal arrives just 50 days before the World Cup kicks off on June 11, when Mexico faces South Africa at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. At this stage, tournament logistics and scheduling are already finalized, making any change highly unlikely.

Iran’s status remains unchanged

Back in March, Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, cast doubt on whether Team Melli would participate due to ongoing military strikes involving Israel and the United States.

Soon after, the Iranian national team confirmed it would play in the tournament, emphasizing that it earned its place through qualification.

Iran’s embassy in Mexico also revealed that its soccer federation asked FIFA to move its matches to Mexico, citing security concerns and travel restrictions. Since June 2025, Iranian citizens have been barred from entering the United States under a federal travel ban, preventing fans from attending games on U.S. soil.

FIFA declined to alter the schedule. Speaking in Mexico City in late March, Infantino made the governing body’s position clear: “We want them to play; they will play in the World Cup. There are no Plan B, C or D. Plan A is the only plan.”

Italy’s long World Cup drought

Italy’s absence from the World Cup has become one of international soccer’s most surprising trends. The four-time champions failed to qualify after losing a playoff to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties, 4-1, following a 1-1 aggregate draw.

The Azzurri have now missed three straight World Cups, following earlier failures to reach Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. Their last appearance came in Brazil in 2014, where they were eliminated in the group stage.

Zampolli’s idea may offer a glimmer of hope for Italian fans, but with the tournament fast approaching and FIFA holding firm, the proposal appears unlikely to gain traction.

Iran’s consistent World Cup presence

In contrast, Iran has been a regular at the World Cup, qualifying for every tournament since 2010. While the team has never advanced past the group stage, it secured its place at the 2026 edition early, becoming just the third nation to qualify after Japan and New Zealand. Iran officially booked its spot on March 25, 2025.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.