Italy’s World Cup absence has already caused major fallout after their dramatic playoff exit. The Azzurri lost on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina following a 1-1 draw, despite playing much of the match with ten men.
Alessandro Bastoni was sent off before half-time, forcing Italy into a defensive approach. They conceded a late equaliser that pushed the match into extra time, before ultimately falling short in the shootout.
That defeat ensured Italy missed their third straight World Cup, extending a worrying trend. However, a controversial political intervention has now raised the prospect of an extraordinary route back into the tournament.
A proposal involving Donald Trump’s envoy Paolo Zampolli has brought unexpected attention to Italy’s absence. Speaking with Financial Times, he admitted suggesting that Italy could replace Iran following the war between United States, Israel and Iran.
Zampolli confirmed the idea had been raised with both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, stating it would be a dream to see Italy at a US-hosted tournament.
“I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” the U.S. envoy told Financial Times.
The suggestion is also linked to wider diplomatic considerations. Relations between the United States and Italy have become strained after Trump publicly criticised Pope Leo XIV and clashed with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over the Iran conflict.
Against that backdrop, the proposal has been framed as a way to repair ties. Reintroducing Italy into a major US-hosted tournament would carry symbolic value, although it remains highly contentious.
FIFA now finds itself under pressure, but Infantino has already made his stance clear. He has publicly stated that Iran will take part in the World Cup.
Iran earned qualification on merit, finishing top of their Asian qualifying group with seven wins, two draws and one defeat. Their place in the tournament is therefore firmly established.
Any attempt to remove them would raise serious sporting and political questions.
Obviously, Zampolli’s lobbying adds another layer to an already complex situation, but as it stands, Iran’s participation appears unchanged.
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