Italy has firmly dismissed suggestions of replacing Iran at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with top sports officials calling the idea both impractical and inappropriate. The proposal, reportedly floated by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli, sparked strong reactions in Italy despite being described as a contingency plan rather than a political move.

Iran, which has already qualified for the World Cup, has not withdrawn from the tournament and is continuing preparations to play in the United States. FIFA has also reiterated that Iran’s group-stage matches near Los Angeles and in Seattle will proceed as scheduled in June, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The controversy emerged after reports indicated that Zampolli had suggested to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy could replace Iran if the latter was unable to participate at the last minute. Zampolli later clarified that his idea was not politically motivated but rather a backup plan. He described it as a “dream” rooted in giving Italian and Italian-American fans a chance to see their national team at the tournament, highlighting Italy’s rich World Cup history, including four titles.

However, Italian authorities swiftly rejected the notion. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi stated that such a move was neither feasible nor appropriate, making it clear that qualification for the World Cup must be earned on merit. Luciano Buonfiglio, president of the Italian Olympic Committee, echoed this sentiment, saying he would feel “offended” by any attempt to include a team without sporting qualification. Italy’s Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti went further, calling the proposal “shameful.”

Italy’s absence from the upcoming World Cup remains a sore point for the nation, as it marks the third consecutive tournament they have failed to qualify for. The disappointing run had already led to major changes within Italian football, including the resignation of the national team coach and the federation president.

Meanwhile, Iran’s participation has been under scrutiny due to escalating tensions following military actions involving the United States and Israel earlier this year. Despite concerns, FIFA has consistently maintained that the tournament schedule will remain unchanged and has refused to entertain suggestions of relocating Iran’s matches or reconsidering their place in the competition.

The Iranian embassy in Rome strongly criticized the replacement suggestion, emphasizing that football should remain separate from politics. In a statement, the embassy said that participation in the World Cup is earned on the pitch and not through political influence, while also accusing the United States of attempting to politicize the sport.

Iran, one of the first teams to qualify from the Asian Football Confederation, has reiterated its commitment to participating in the tournament. Government officials have confirmed that the national team is preparing for a “proud and successful” campaign in the United States.

From a regulatory standpoint, FIFA’s rules allow for a replacement if a team withdraws, but do not explicitly state that the substitute must come from the same confederation. However, in practice, such decisions typically follow continental qualification structures, meaning the next eligible Asian team would likely be considered.

As things stand, Iran’s participation remains intact, and Italy’s firm rejection of any replacement scenario reinforces the principle that World Cup spots must be earned through competition, not circumstance.

(With AP Inputs)