World Cup: Italy responds to Trump's proposal to replace Iran

World Cup: Italy's firm response to Trump

Europe 23 April 2026 at 14:00

Italy has categorically refused a reprieve for the 2026 World Cup, despite an unexpected proposal involving Iran, standing firm on sporting merit.

Italy has flatly rejected a rather surprising proposition regarding the 2026 World Cup. In a situation blending sports and diplomacy, the idea of bringing the Azzurri back into the tournament in place of Iran was unequivocally dismissed by Italian authorities.

Sports Minister Andrea Abodi immediately shut down the discussion, calling such a scenario "not appropriate" and reminding everyone that "qualification is earned on the pitch". This stance was echoed by Luciano Buonfiglio, who said he was "offended" by the suggestion, while Giancarlo Giorgetti admitted he would be "ashamed" of such a move—showing the total rejection of the idea.

🚨 𝗙𝗜𝗙𝗔 𝗥𝗘𝗝𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗦 𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗣’𝗦 𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗔 𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘 𝗜𝗥𝗔𝗡 🇮🇷 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗬 🇮🇹 𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗖𝗨𝗣! ❌

Italy has also refused the idea, considering it an attack on its pride.

🗞️ @el_pais pic.twitter.com/xTuzX8hLr0
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) April 23, 2026

This initiative reportedly originated with Paolo Zampolli, a close associate of Donald Trump, who put forward the argument for both sporting and diplomatic reasons. But FIFA’s stance is crystal clear: no changes will be made, and Iran’s participation is confirmed—leaving Italy to reckon with its recent sporting disappointments.