Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi has dismissed a suggestion of Italy replacing Iran at the World Cup calling it “not appropriate.”
US special envoy for global partnerships appointed by Donald Trump, Paolo Zampolli, had reportedly raised the issue with the President and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
In a statement to Sky News, Abodi said, “Italy’s possible re-qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has reportedly proposed to FIFA, is firstly not possible, and secondly, not appropriate. I don’t know what comes first. Qualification is on the pitch”.
Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) President Luciano Buonfiglio says that he would not be happy if Italy were given Iran’s place at this summer’s tournament.
“First of all, I don’t think it’s possible. Second, I’d feel offended. In order to go to the World Cup, you have to earn it”, he said.
It’s understood Iranian team officials have been part of FIFA’s World Cup preparation meetings with no request to withdraw from the tournament received at this stage.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
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