Omotayo Fashola
(Donald Trump (L) with Paolo Zampolli (R). Photo credit: Facebook)
Paolo Zampolli, an ambassador for former U.S. President Trump, has urged FIFA to remove Iran from the upcoming World Cup and grant Italy its spot.
The controversial suggestion is tied to efforts to rebuild ties between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after falling out earlier.
Their strained relationship followed Trump’s harsh criticism of Pope Leo XIV regarding the Iran conflict.
“I’ve personally advocated to both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino that Italy should replace Iran,” Zampolli stated.
“As an Italian, witnessing the Azzurri compete in a U.S.-hosted World Cup would be historic—especially with their four-time championship legacy.
Italy’s absence from the tournament was cemented after a crushing 4-1 defeat by Bosnia and Herzegovina in March’s qualifiers.
