FIFA issue immediate response to calls for Italy to replace Iran at the World Cup

FIFA issue immediate response to calls for Italy to replace Iran at the World CupAn envoy to US President Donald Trump has suggested that Iran be replaced by Italy at the World Cup in North America this summer and now governing body FIFA have respondedCommentsSportFelix Keith Senior Sports Reporter12:05, 23 Apr 2026Updated 12:05, 23 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesGianni Infantino wants Iran to play at the World Cup(Image: Alex Wong/Getty Images)FIFA have no intention of replacing Iran with Italy at the World Cup this summer after one of Donald Trump's envoys suggested the controversial move. Iran's presence at the tournament will be awkward for Trump amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but the United States President has no authority to stop them playing.‌Trump has previously said it would not be "appropriate" for the Iranians to compete "for their own life and safety". His hard line stance comes with the US and Israel still at war with Iran, despite a ceasefire currently being in place.‌The World Cup kicks off on June 11 and takes place across the US, Canada and Mexico. Iran qualified for the 48-team tournament and are scheduled to play in Group G against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and against Egypt in Seattle.‌However, with just 49 days to go until the World Cup begins, US special envoy Paolo Zampolli floated the idea of swapping Iran for Italy. The Italians will not be at the World Cup for the third straight occasion after losing to Boznia and Herzegovina in a play-off on March 31.JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageREAD MORE: Bruno Fernandes discovers transfer fate as Man Utd change mind over summer saleREAD MORE: Donald Trump aide wants Italy at 2026 World Cup and names team they can replaceThere won't be a reprieve for the Azzurri, with BBC Sport reporting that FIFA have not given any thought into such a move. World football's governing body have poi...