The revolution in the 2026 World Cup is taking on a storyline worthy of a Hollywood film! An explosive report from the Financial Times reveals that a special envoy from the United States to former President Donald Trump is promoting a bombastic proposal: to expel Iran from the upcoming World Cup and give the spot to Italy, which has missed out on the competition for the third consecutive time. It sounds like madness straight out of a football management video game, but the idea is real and has already been presented to the highest authorities in the world of the beautiful game.
The mastermind behind this bold maneuver is Paolo Zampolli, an Italian diplomat who serves as a special envoy for Trump. Zampolli confirmed directly and unequivocally that he has already suggested this unprecedented swap to Donald Trump himself and to FIFA President Gianni Infantino — a request that could shake the global football landscape.
For Italian fans, this would be a true lifeline. The Azzurri, four-time world champions, were humiliated in the qualifying playoff, losing 4-1 on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina, confirming their absence from the World Cup for the third consecutive time, after also missing the 2018 and 2022 editions.
Zampolli does not hide his admiration for the history and prestige of the Italian team, stating that their inclusion would be a “dream” and is more than justified by the legacy of their four world titles. His words are clear and heartfelt: “I confirm that I suggested to Trump and Gianni Infantino that Italy replace Iran in the World Cup. I am Italian by birth, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri compete on American soil. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.”
But this proposal is not just about football. Behind the swap lies a political strategy to try to mend the strained relations between Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, turning the World Cup into a stage that is not only sporting, but also diplomatic.
With this proposal that mixes politics, football, and controversy, the 2026 World Cup risks going down in history as the most controversial of the modern era. Will FIFA accept this revolutionary swap? The decision promises to shake the world of football and leave fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned, as this story is far from over!
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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