The US had said 'Italy should participate instead of Iran': Italy's World Cup response

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, political tension has spilled onto the football pitch. The proposal submitted to FIFA by US President Donald Trump through his Special Envoy Paolo Zampolli, which suggested banning Iran from the tournament and inviting Italy in its place, has been firmly rejected by the Italian administration.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her cabinet emphasized that they do not find it ethical to obtain a right "at the negotiating table" rather than through sporting success. Speaking on the matter in an interview with Sky News, Italian Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi stated that the proposal was in no way acceptable. Regarding Italy, which failed to qualify for the tournament after being eliminated by Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off round, Abodi said, "Such a proposal is firstly impossible, and secondly inappropriate. I don't know which comes first, but what you call qualification is done on the pitch, not at the table."

It was clearly stated that Italy, nicknamed the "Azzurri" and a four-time world champion in the international arena, wishes to participate in the tournament through sporting merit, prioritizing the ethical values of football.

On the other hand, the Iranian side maintains its determination to participate in the tournament despite all the controversy and political pressure. Mehdi Taj, President of the Football Federation of Iran, which finished the Asian Qualifying Group as leaders, stated, "As things stand, we are in the tournament," confirming that the team will travel to the US as planned.

It is reported that FIFA President Gianni Infantino's stance on Iran's inclusion in the tournament remains unchanged. According to the schedule, Iran will take the field against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.

News Source: 12punto