Amber Searls-Imagn Images
After missing out on its third straight world cup, the Italian national soccer team may be handed a lifeline by President Donald Trump as a result of his beef with the Pope.
According to reports, Trump envoy Paolo Zampolli personally lobbied both President Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup, arguing that Italy’s four World Cup titles and general soccer “pedigree” should count for something.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Zampolli also admitted that he is Italian-American and would personally enjoy this outcome.
President Trump envoy Paolo Zampolli personally lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup
“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and [FIFA president Gianni] 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,” Zampolli told the outlet.
The Financial Times reported that Zampolli’s plan is part of an effort to repair the relationship between Trump and Italy’s prime minister Giorgia Meloni after the two fell out over the U.S. president’s attacks against Pope Leo XIV over the Iran war.
Despite his ties to Trump and the ongoing war in Iran, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has remained adamant that Iran will be competing in the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off in less than a month on June 11 and will run through the final on July 19.
Italy missed out on its third straight world cup — an unmitgiated disaster for such an iconic footballing nation — after losing in the qualifying playoffs to Bosnia and Herzegovina in late March.
Iran will open its World Cup play against New Zealand on June 15 before taking on Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26.