President Donald Trump was asked about the possibility of Italy replacing Iran in this summer’s World Cup due to the ongoing conflict.
Donald Trump talks about the World Cup (Image: AP)
Donald Trump held his cards close to his chest when asked what he thought about Italy potentially replacing Iran at this summer’s World Cup. The US president previously said he would “welcome” people to attend the tournament, which will be held across North America, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
But President Trump’s envoy this week called on FIFA to allow Italy to replace Iran, which missed out on a spot in the tournament after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this month. “I can confirm that I have proposed to Mr. Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Italy take part in the World Cup instead of Iran,” Paolo Zampoli said.
“As an Italian, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri qualify for a tournament hosted by the United States. With four titles under their belt, they have the history and class to warrant a spot.”
read more: Italian official speaks out about replacing Iran at World Cup after proposal to Donald Trumpread more: Lamine Yamal, Hugo Ekitike and other top stars heartbroken by World Cup injuries
President Trump seemed caught off guard when asked about such a reality becoming a reality, insisting he needed time to think before expressing his opinion. “That’s an interesting question,” the 79-year-old told the media in the Oval Office.
“You know, let me think for a second. Are they doing that? Are they thinking of replacing them?”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was then asked to answer questions and reiterated that Iran would be welcome despite continued speculation about Iran’s participation and unsuccessful attempts to move the games from the United States to Mexico.
“The United States has not said anything that they can’t come,” Rubio said. “The problem with Iran is not the players, but the other people that Iran wants to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards.”
“We may not be able to let them into the country, but the players themselves cannot be allowed to do so. I don’t know where that is coming from other than the speculation that Iran has decided not to come and Italy will take their place. But if they themselves have decided not to come, it is because they have decided not to come.”
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It has been confirmed that FIFA has no plans to replace Iran with Italy in this summer’s tournament. However, Iran’s participation remains uncertain due to the ongoing conflict with the United States.
Infantino had previously reiterated that there would be no changes regarding Iran at the World Cup. “We want Iran to play and Iran will also play in the World Cup,” he said.
“There is no plan B, C or D, only plan A. Iran represents Iranian nationals, Iranian residents and expats. Iran will be participating in the FIFA World Cup, and in my opinion, at the moment, Iran is a very strong team, so we are excited.”
Coach Gianni Infantino talks about Iran’s participation in the World Cup (Image: Getty Images)
“So, I’m very happy. I’ve been watching the team, I’ve talked to the players, I’ve talked to the coaches. So, everything is going well. They’re a very, very strong team, so we’re happy. We’re very happy.”
Elsewhere, Italy has also balked at the idea of competing in the World Cup on grounds of fairness, given that they also failed to qualify legitimately. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi told Sky News: “The possibility of Italy re-qualifying for the 2026 World Cup… is firstly impossible and secondly not appropriate. We don’t know what lies ahead. Qualification is on the pitch.”
Italian Olympic Committee president Luciano Buonfiglio added: “He would be offended. He should be eligible for the World Cup.” Italy’s Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti also condemned the idea, calling it “shameful”.
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