Donald Trump kept his thoughts guarded when questioned about Italy potentially stepping in for Iran at this summer's FIFA World Cup. The President of the United States has previously stated that the nation will be "welcome" at the tournament, which will take place across North America, despite continuing war in the Middle East.
Nevertheless, an envoy to Trump this week urged FIFA to substitute Iran with Italy, who missed out on qualification for this year's competition following a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this month. Paolo Zampoli said: "I can confirm that I have suggested to Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy take Iran's place at the World Cup.
"As an Italian native, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri competing in a tournament hosted by the United States. With four titles, they have the history and stature to warrant inclusion."
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Italian officials slam ‘shameful’ proposal from Trump envoy for Azzuri to replace Iran at World Cup
Trump seemed to be taken aback when pressed on such a scenario materializing, insisting he required time to consider before offering his verdict. Addressing journalists at the Oval Office, the 79-year-old said, via The Mirror: "That's an interesting question. You know what, let me give that a little thought. Is that what they're doing? They're thinking about replacing them?"
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was subsequently invited to respond and confirmed that Iran would be welcome despite persistent rumours about their involvement and their unsuccessful bid to have their fixtures relocated from the USA to Mexico.
Rubio said: "Nothing from the US has told them they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be with their athletes, it would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps).
"We may not be able to let them in, but not the athletes themselves. I don't know where that's coming from, other than speculation that Iran may decide not to come and that Italy would fill their spot. But if they decide not to come on their own, that's because they decide not to come."
FIFA have confirmed they have no intention of replacing Iran with Italy at this summer's tournament. Nevertheless, Iran's involvement remains in doubt owing to the ongoing war between the nation and the United States.
Infantino has also previously stressed that there will be no changes regarding Iran's place at the World Cup, stating: "We want Iran to play, and Iran will play at the World Cup.
"There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represent their people – both those living in Iran and those living abroad. Iran will be at the FIFA World Cup, and we're excited because they're a very, very strong team, in my opinion, right now.
"So, I'm very happy. I've seen the team, I've spoken to the players and the coach. So, everything's fine. We're delighted because they are a very, very strong team. I'm very happy."
Meanwhile, Italy have similarly rejected the notion of participating in the World Cup on fairness grounds, having failed to qualify through the proper channels. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi told Sky News: "Italy's possible re-qualification for the 2026 World Cup...is firstly, not possible and secondly, not appropriate. I don't know what comes first. Qualification is on the pitch."
Additionally, Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian Olympic Committee, stated: "I would feel offended. You need to deserve to go to the World Cup." Italy's Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti went even further, branding the proposal as "shameful."