FIFA officials have confirmed there are no plans to swap Iran for Italy in the 2026 World Cup, despite a proposal from U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli. Zampolli told the Financial Times he urged President Trump and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to consider the Azzurri, citing Italy’s four‑title pedigree. FIFA has not issued an official comment, but Infantino recently reiterated that Iran will compete.

The suggestion emerged amid diplomatic friction: Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni rebuked Trump over remarks about Pope Leo XIV, prompting Zampolli to offer a football‑centric olive branch. Italy, however, missed qualification after a play‑off loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, leaving the nation absent from the tournament for a third straight edition. Under FIFA statutes, the governing body retains sole discretion to replace a member association if a team withdraws.

Iran’s group stage schedule remains unchanged, with matches against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt slated for June 15, 21 and 26 in Los Angeles and Seattle. The decision underscores FIFA’s commitment to its existing lineup despite external political pressure, ensuring the tournament proceeds with the originally qualified teams.