Surprise plan from the US: Iran's exclusion and Italy's return to the 2026 World Cup are demanded

2026-04-23 07:49:30Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX
Surprise plan from the US: Iran's exclusion and Italy's return to the
Meloni, Trump

Rumors are circulating in the US: The tycoon's special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has asked FIFA to return the "Azzurri" to the US to participate in the final stages of the World Cup.

Donald Trump's special envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has officially asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup. The news is reported by the "Financial Times", citing sources according to which this plan "is an attempt to repair relations between Donald Trump and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni", following the president's attacks on the Pope regarding the war in Iran.

"I confirm that I suggested to Trump and Infantino that Iran be replaced by Italy in the World Cup. It would be a dream to see the 'Azzurri' in the United States. With four championship titles, Italy has the right heritage to justify its inclusion," Zampolli told the Financial Times.


Who is Paolo Zampolli?

Paolo Zampolli is an Italian entrepreneur and manager, known primarily for his roles in the worlds of fashion and real estate, as well as for his international connections, particularly in the United States. Among the most cited facts about him is the role he played in introducing Melania Trump to New York high society circles during the 1990s.

In addition to fashion, Zampolli has operated in the luxury real estate sector and is known for his closeness to American political and business circles, including a close relationship with Donald Trump. Over the years, he has also held institutional roles: he has represented Saint Kitts and Nevis in international organizations and has carried out diplomatic activities.

The precedent of 2022

Even in 2022, during the World Cup in Qatar, the US ambassador had asked FIFA head Gianni Infantino to have Italy replace Iran.

“Once again,” the letter at the time began, “the world awaits your leadership to disqualify Iran from the World Cup. As the President’s representative for football on the Council on Sport, Fitness and Nutrition, I appreciate that this (Iranian) stance could further damage their position. On a personal level, and I am not alone, I dream and am convinced that we will see Italy play England in the World Cup after Iran’s disqualification. As far as I know, Italy is first in the FIFA rankings of the teams left out.”


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