The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup has been hit by a wave of political shockwaves following reports that a top envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has formally suggested replacing Iran with Italy in the tournament.

The proposal, first reported by the Financial Times, comes amid the ongoing Iran war and a reported effort to mend diplomatic ties between the U.S. President and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

U.S. Special Envoy Paolo Zampolli confirmed he has reached out to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the switch.

“I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament,” Zampolli told the FT. “With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”

Italy missed out on qualification for a third consecutive time in March after a devastating penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While Italy has the historical pedigree, the move would likely face intense legal and regional opposition:

• The AFC Argument: The Asian Football Confederation is expected to lobby for an Asian replacement. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), who narrowly lost their qualifying playoff to Iraq, would be the logical sporting choice from the same region as Iran.
• FIFA’s Power: Under Article Six of the World Cup regulations, FIFA has the ultimate authority to select any nation they choose to fill a vacancy if a team withdraws or is removed.
• Iran’s Stance: Iranian FFIRI President Mehdi Taj stated that the team is still preparing for the finals but remains “obedient to the decisions of the authorities.”

Iran is currently scheduled to open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. With the tournament—co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada—set to begin on June 11, FIFA is under immense pressure to finalize the 48-team roster.

As of now, FIFA, the White House, and the Italian FA (FIGC) have not issued official comments on the proposal.