Iran towards the 2026 World Cup, "Trump's man" opens debate: Italy hopes for a surprise comeback

2026-05-06 14:22:14Sport SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX
Paolo Zampolli

The Iranian national football team confirmed its presence in the 2026 World Cup finals, but Paolo Zampolli, the United States special representative in Italy, has returned to the topic of Italy's possible participation in the World Cup which begins on June 11.

'Trump's man' explained in an interview with 'Gazzetta dello Sport' that "FIFA regulations are wrong in terms of replacing a team that does not appear and if Iran were to withdraw from the World Cup, Italy, which has won the trophy four times and is the highest-ranked team in FIFA among the eliminated teams, would meet the appropriate requirements."

Despite FIFA president Gianni Infantino clarifying that Iran will participate, Zampolli is convinced that there could be a glimmer of hope for the Blues.

"The key is to understand what the Iranians have in mind, which is hard to believe. Now they say the team is coming, but what about their fans who are very unpopular in the United States given what is happening? The game has started."

However, the Asian national team has made it clear that it wants "guarantees to go with a clear conscience."

Regarding the possibility that a possible 'rematch' would divide the Italians, Trump's man is certain that "fans will watch the matches even if the qualification did not happen on the field."

According to Zampolli, Italian origin could also be an advantage and facilitate the final decision of FIFA head Infantino, but emphasizes: "I will not put any more pressure on him."


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