Paolo Zampolli, acting as a special envoy for global partnerships, recently shared with the Financial Times that he proposed an intriguing idea to both U.S. President and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. His suggestion: allow Italy, a nation with a rich soccer heritage, to participate in the upcoming U.S.-hosted tournament.
“Being Italian myself, it would be a dream come true to witness the Azzurri competing on American soil,” Zampolli expressed with enthusiasm. “Their four World Cup titles speak volumes about their pedigree and justify their inclusion.”
Currently, Italy finds itself on the sidelines, having failed to secure a spot after falling short in the playoffs. Zampolli believes that amending this situation could serve as a diplomatic bridge, mending ties between the U.S. and Italy under the leadership of President Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Meanwhile, Iran secured its place in the World Cup by emerging victorious in the AFC qualifiers, underscoring the competitive nature of the tournament. Zampolli’s proposal, if considered, could add an interesting layer to the event, sparking conversation and perhaps controversy within the global soccer community.
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.
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.”
“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.
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.
Two years later, he introduced her to Trump.
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.
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