Italy Refuses Proposal to Replace Iran in the 2026 World Cup
Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi firmly rejected a proposal from an envoy of former U.S. President Donald Trump to replace Iran in the 2026 World Cup. Abodi called the idea "impossible and inappropriate," emphasizing that qualification for the tournament must come through official competitive channels.
The Trump envoy, Paolo Zampolli, claimed to have discussed the concept with both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. FIFA itself declined to comment on the report, while Infantino had previously stressed that Iran would "definitely" still participate.
On another note, Iran is said to have requested its matches be moved from the United States due to political tensions, but this request was reportedly rejected by FIFA. The 2026 World Cup is scheduled for June-July 2026 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran placed in Group G.
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