Italy’s repechage to the World Cup: America issues ultimatum to FIFA

A new case has broken out in the United States just days before the start of the World Cup. In addition to the problems related to Iran (visas still not arriving and Tehran’s selection will stay in Mexico) and Congo (Ebola emergency), under the U.S. media’s magnifying glass has now come the flop in ticket sales for World Cup matches due to exaggerated prices.

As the BBC reports, FIFA has come under official investigation by the attorneys general of New York and New Jersey for alleged artificial price inflation and fan deception in the sale of World Cup 2026 tickets. The two states accuse the organization of creating confusion, fictitious scarcity, and excessive prices, with average increases of 34 percent on 90 of the 104 games.

Misleading information on seating locations is also being challenged. Prosecutors Jennifer Davenport and Letitia James, along with the New York Department of Consumer Protection, have issued a subpoena to FIFA and announce a thorough investigation. Indeed, despite the strong demand announced by Infantino, there are still many tickets available at full price. “Hosting the World Cup is not an invitation to exploit residents and tourists,” Davenport said. The inquiry comes after protests also in California and tensions with local authorities also over the cost of transportation.

In this scenario of organizational chaos and diplomatic tensions, Italy remains in the background as an interested spectator. Under Article 6.7 of FIFA regulations-which provides for the possibility of replacing a withdrawn or excluded association with another federation-the Azzurri could be a candidate for repechage in the event of an Iranian forfeit. Paolo Zampolli, U.S. Special Representative for Global Partnerships and envoy of President Donald Trump, said he directly proposed Italy’s candidacy to Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino: “In the event that, for whatever reason, the Iranian national team does not show up, Italy could be considered. After all, we have won four World Cups.” Zampolli said he is convinced that the matter is by no means closed: “I am convinced that there could be twists and turns, because Iran is used to frequently changing its position.”