Italian officials have firmly rejected a proposal by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup, calling the idea "shameful" and inappropriate. The suggestion, reported by The Financial Times, drew criticism from Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi and Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, who emphasized that qualification for the tournament should be earned on the pitch.
Key Takeaways
Italian officials have rejected a proposal by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup. The suggestion drew criticism from Italian ministers and football figures, who emphasized that qualification should be earned on the pitch.
- Trump envoy suggests replacing Iran with Italy at World Cup
- Italian officials call the idea 'shameful' and inappropriate
- FIFA confirms Iran will participate as planned
- Iran continues preparations for the tournament
Zampolli, an Italian-American envoy with no official connection to the World Cup or Italian football, told The Financial Times that he had suggested replacing Iran with Italy to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He expressed his desire to see Italy, a four-time World Cup winner, participate in the tournament hosted by the United States.
FIFA has confirmed that Iran will participate as planned, with President Gianni Infantino stating that "the Iranian team is coming, for sure." Iran qualified for the fourth consecutive World Cup last year but requested to move their group matches from the U.S. to Mexico due to the ongoing war. FIFA rejected this request, and Iran continues its preparations for the tournament.
Italian football figures also expressed skepticism about the proposal. Leading Italian coach Gianni De Biasi told Reuters that Italy does not need Trump's support and can manage on its own. The Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj reassured that Iran is fully preparing for the World Cup, despite political tensions.
The decision to replace any team lies with FIFA under Article Six of the World Cup regulations. If Iran were to withdraw, the Asian Football Confederation would likely lobby for a replacement from Asia, with the United Arab Emirates being an obvious choice. The World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, with Iran set to kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles.
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