An envoy linked to Donald Trump has suggested that Italy could replace Iran at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, according to a report by the Financial Times. The idea has triggered strong debate in both sports and political circles. The proposal is linked to wider diplomatic tensions and growing global pressure around the tournament. According to the report, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli raised the idea directly with Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. He suggested that Iran’s place in the World Cup could be given to Italy instead. Zampolli said Italy has a strong football history and could justify inclusion based on its past success and global reputation. Zampolli also said he is of Italian origin and would personally welcome the move. He described it as a “dream” to see Italy take part in the US-hosted tournament. Italy has won the World Cup four times, which makes it one of the most successful national teams in football history. The World Cup Iran Italy discussion has also been linked to political tensions between the United States and Italy. The Financial Times reported that relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have faced strain. This is said to have grown after disagreements involving Trump’s comments on Pope Leo XIV and the ongoing Iran war situation. The suggestion is being viewed by some observers as part of a broader attempt to repair diplomatic relations between Washington and Rome. However, no official confirmation has been made by the White House, FIFA, or the football federations involved. Zampolli said, “I confirm I have suggested to Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I am an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.” So far, none of the involved organizations have responded publicly. The White House, FIFA, the Italian Football Federation, and Iran’s football federation have all declined or not yet commented on the report. Italy’s possible return to the World Cup has also drawn attention because of its recent struggles in qualification. The national team failed to qualify for the tournament after a shock playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March. This marked the third consecutive World Cup that Italy has missed, which was a major disappointment for fans. Despite this, Italy remains one of football’s most historic teams. Their absence from the tournament has been widely discussed in sports media. The idea of bringing them back through replacement has therefore added even more controversy to the debate. Iran, on the other hand, has reportedly stated that it is ready to participate in the World Cup. According to reports, the Iranian football federation has confirmed its commitment to the tournament and its preparation for competition. However, these reports have not been independently verified. The World Cup Iran Italy proposal has raised questions about how teams are selected for global tournaments. FIFA rules normally require teams to qualify through regional competitions. Replacing a qualified team with another nation would be highly unusual and would require major rule changes. Football analysts say the suggestion is unlikely to be implemented, but it highlights the political pressure that can sometimes surround global sports events. The World Cup is often seen as both a sporting and diplomatic stage, where international relations can influence public discussion. The report also comes at a time when the United States is preparing to host the next World Cup. This has increased attention on how political decisions and global tensions could affect the tournament. Fans and commentators have reacted strongly on social media. Some support the idea of bringing Italy back due to their football history. Others argue that removing a qualified team like Iran would damage the fairness of the competition. FIFA has not issued any statement confirming that such a change is under consideration. At this stage, the idea remains only a reported suggestion without official backing. The World Cup Iran Italy discussion continues to grow online as football and politics increasingly overlap. While the idea is controversial, it has already added a new layer of debate ahead of one of the world’s biggest sporting events.