A report has claimed that an envoy to former US President Donald Trump has suggested that FIFA consider replacing Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup.

According to the Financial Times, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli proposed world football governing body FIFA, describing it as a “dream” scenario to see Italy return to the tournament.

Zampolli argued that Italy, a four-time World Cup winner, deserves a place at the finals hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite failing to qualify after losing a playoff match.

The report added that the suggestion was also linked to efforts to improve diplomatic relations between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following reported tensions over comments related to US foreign policy and the Iran conflict.

Zampolli, an Italian-American businessman and former modelling agent, reportedly told the Financial Times that he had personally raised the idea with Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

He also said Italy’s football history makes it worthy of inclusion in the tournament, noting its strong pedigree in global football.

Italy, however, failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time after losing a playoff match.

Meanwhile, Iran’s participation in the tournament has faced uncertainty due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel. Despite this, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly stated that Iran remains qualified and will participate according to the official draw.

The proposal has sparked attention due to its political undertones, but FIFA has not announced any changes to the list of qualified teams for the 2026 World Cup.