Italy’s sports minister, Andrea Abodi, has dismissed proposals suggesting the national football team should replace Iran at this year’s World Cup, calling the idea “not appropriate” and affirming that qualification must be earned on the field.

The comments follow a suggestion by Paolo Zampolli, a former special envoy under Donald Trump’s administration, who proposed fast-tracking Italy’s inclusion in the tournament after their unexpected playoff loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina last month. Zampolli argued that the four-time World Cup champions possess the pedigree to justify their participation despite failing to qualify through conventional means.

Abodi rejected this notion during a Sky News interview, emphasizing that the World Cup’s merit-based qualification system must be maintained. “Italy’s possible requalification for the 2026 World Cup, which US president Donald Trump’s envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has reportedly proposed to FIFA, is firstly not possible, and secondly not appropriate,” Abodi said.

The speculation around Iran’s place in the tournament arises amid geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel, with some questioning whether Iran will participate as scheduled. Iran is set to play two group stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. Although there were considerations to move these matches to Mexico, a co-host nation, such a relocation appears unlikely. Iranian officials have not requested to withdraw, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino has affirmed the team’s participation, stating last month that Iran “will be at the World Cup.”

In the event that Iran were to forfeit, there is no clear pathway for Italy’s reinstatement. The United Arab Emirates, as the next-highest-ranked Asian nation not qualified for the tournament, is viewed as the most probable replacement.

Italy’s absence from a World Cup for a third consecutive time has led to significant reflection and upheaval within the country’s football establishment. Recent developments include the resignation of Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian Football Federation, as well as the departure of national team coach Gennaro Gattuso.

Looking ahead, Italy is also preparing to co-host Euro 2032 with Turkey and faces pressing deadlines to build and renovate stadiums suitable for the event. The nation’s football authorities are now focused on rebuilding and developing the sport domestically in the wake of recent disappointments.