A proposal linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Iran be removed from the upcoming FIFA World Cup and replaced with Italy, according to recent reports. The idea was reportedly put forward by Paolo Zampolli, an envoy associated with Trump, who communicated the proposal to FIFA leadership, including its president Gianni Infantino.
According to the reports, the proposal seeks to have Italy take Iran's place in the tournament despite the European side failing to qualify through the official process. Iran had already secured its qualification for the World Cup through the standard competitive route, while Italy did not make the final list of qualified teams.
There has been no official confirmation from FIFA indicating that such a change is under consideration. The global football governing body has not announced any plans to remove Iran or replace it with another team. Under FIFA regulations, teams qualify for the World Cup through structured regional competitions, and any changes to the lineup typically follow strict rules. In situations where a team is unable to participate, replacements are usually drawn from the same confederation, making a European replacement for an Asian team unlikely.
The proposal comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, although no direct link has been established between those tensions and any formal FIFA decision-making process. At this stage, the suggestion remains a proposal and has not translated into any official action. Iran continues its preparations for the tournament as scheduled.
