A senior envoy to former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly urged global football body FIFA to replace Iran with Italy at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, sparking fresh controversy around the tournament’s lineup.

According to a report by the Financial Times, U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli said it would be a “dream” to see the four-time champions Italy feature at the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Zampolli disclosed that he had proposed the idea directly to Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, arguing that Italy’s pedigree justifies inclusion despite their failure to qualify.

“I confirm I have suggested that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup… with four titles, they have the pedigree,” he was quoted as saying.

Italy, known as the Azzurri, missed out on qualification for a third consecutive tournament after losing a playoff to Bosnia and Herzegovina, extending a surprising absence for one of football’s most decorated nations.

The proposal comes amid geopolitical tensions involving Iran, whose participation has faced uncertainty following a reported conflict involving the U.S. and Israel earlier this year. Iranian football authorities had previously indicated they were in talks with FIFA to potentially relocate their matches away from the United States.

However, Infantino recently reaffirmed that Iran would compete as scheduled, stating the team would play “where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.”

The report also suggested the move could be linked to diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following disagreements over international issues.

While the suggestion has no official standing within FIFA’s qualification process, it has added a political dimension to discussions around the 2026 World Cup lineup, raising questions about the intersection of sport, diplomacy, and global politics.