Italy’s repechage to World Cup, Trump’s sensational move: "Away with Iran, in with Azzurri"

Donald Trump’s special envoy Paolo Zampolli has reportedly proposed to FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the 2026 World Cup. The news was reported by the Financial Times, which cites sources that the initiative would also represent an attempt to mend fences between Trump and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which were cracked after the tycoon’s criticism of the Pope in relation to the war in Iran.

“I confirm that I have suggested to Trump and Gianni Infantino that Iran be replaced by Italy at the World Cup. It would be a dream to see the Azzurri play in the United States. With four titles, Italy has the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli said.

But who are we talking about? Paolo Zampolli is an Italian entrepreneur and manager known for his activities in the fashion and luxury real estate sectors, as well as his relationships in international circles, particularly in the United States. Among the most curious aspects of his biography is the role he played in the 1990s in introducing Melania Trump into New York high society circles.

During his career he has developed ties with U.S. political and business circles, consolidating a certain closeness to Donald Trump. He has also held institutional positions, including serving as St. Kitts and Nevis’ representative to international organizations, performing diplomatic work.

This is not the first time such a proposal has emerged. As early as 2022, on the occasion of the World Cup in Qatar, the U.S. ambassador wrote to Infantino requesting the exclusion of Iran and the inclusion of Italy. The letter pointed out that the world expected FIFA to take a strong stance, hoping for Iran’s disqualification and envisioning a return of the Azzurri to the tournament, possibly against England, as the first excluded team according to FIFA rankings.