World Cup 2026: Italy government officials slam idea of taking Iran’s place

Italian government officials have rejected a suggestion that their national football team should replace Iran at the World Cup. The idea was made by Paolo Zampolli, a US envoy for global relations, who claimed Italy has the pedigree to justify inclusion due to their four World Cup titles. Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi and Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti have described the concept as "not appropriate" and "shameful" respectively, with fans also expressing disappointment and embarrassment.