Sports 23 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Italian Officials Slam US Proposal to Replace Iran with Italy at 2026 World Cup
Italian sports leaders have rejected a US envoy's suggestion to replace Iran with Italy in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling it inappropriate, shameful, and undeserved. The tournament is set for June 11 to July 19 across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/italy-officials-not-appropriate-to-replace-iran-in-world-cup-5434542
Italian officials have strongly opposed a proposal from US special envoy Paolo Zampolli to have Italy replace Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Zampolli shared the idea with former US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing Italy’s strong football history as four-time champions who missed qualification. Iran’s spot became uncertain after US and Israeli airstrikes in late February, prompting mixed comments from Trump on their safety.
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi dismissed the notion, stating it’s ‘not possible and not appropriate’ since qualification happens on the pitch. Italy lost a playoff penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.
National Olympic Committee president Luciano Buonfiglio echoed this, saying he’d feel offended and that spots must be earned. Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti labeled it ‘shameful’.
The 23rd World Cup features 48 teams from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran’s Group G matches include two in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)