US envoy's failed FIFA bid for Italy

United States Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli attempted and failed to get FIFA to replace the Iranian national team with the Italian team at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Zampolli, an Italian native, stated it would be a "dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament." This follows a previous report of a senior Trump envoy making a formal request to FIFA, which was publicly rejected by Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi. The effort highlights the politicization of international sports under the current US administration.