Paolo Zampolli, a senior aide to former US President Donald Trump, has suggested that Italy replace Iran in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. He presented this idea to both Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing Italy's impressive football legacy, having won the World Cup four times. The 2026 tournament will be a historic event, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and will feature an expanded format with 48 teams. Despite Italy's rich football history, the team has faced challenges, failing to qualify for the last two World Cups. FIFA has yet to respond to Zampolli's proposal, and any potential replacement of Iran would involve complex regulatory issues, especially since Iran has already qualified through the Asian qualifiers. The proposal comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, although FIFA typically keeps sporting decisions separate from political influences.