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Trump envoy asks president to replace Iran with Italy at World Cup

April 23, 2026 - 1.20am

One of Donald Trump's top envoys has asked the president to replace Iran's team in the FIFA World Cup with Italy.

Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy for global partnerships, told FT he had suggested the idea to both the president and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

"I'm an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament," he said.

Paolo Zampolli is a long-time friend of Donald Trump. Getty

"With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion."

Italy is currently not participating in the tournament after failing to make it through the playoffs.

The once-powerhouse of European football was defeated by Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.

Zampolli argued the switch would repair relations with Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Iran qualified for the World Cup last year after winning in the AFC qualifiers.

Paolo Zampolli with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Instagram

So far, Infantino has spoken in favour of Iran participating in the tournament.

"Iran has to come, they represent their people, they have qualified, the players want to play," he said last month.

"Sports should be outside of politics."

Trump was less enthusiastic.

"The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety," he said last month.

Iran has been resolute in having their players attend the event, which is being hosted in Mexico, Canada and the USA.

Despite Zampolli's pleas, the US president does not have the power to decide what teams participate in the World Cup.

Milan-born Zampolli was appointed special envoy by his long-time friend Trump.

Players of Italy reacts at the end of the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers. — Italy did not make it through the World Cup qualifiers. FIGC via Getty Images

The owner of a modelling agency, Zampolli, sponsored Melania Trump's visa to move to the USA in 1996.

Two years later, he introduced her to Trump.

Zampolli was partners with Jeffrey Epstein in a bid to purchase a modelling agency in 2004.

Zampolli has faced allegations that he instigated the arrest and deportation of his ex.

Amanda Ungaro had lived in the US for decades after being flown in from Brazil on Epstein's plane.

After a long custody battle over their 16-year-old son, Ungaro was arrested by ICE agents, and after several months in custody, was deported back to Brazil.

The New York Times reported Zampolli had asked for Ungaro to be placed in ICE detention.

Zampolli later accompanied Vice President JD Vance to Hungary as he campaigned unsuccessfully for Prime Minister Victor Orban.