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

Paolo Zampolli, Special Envoy for Global Partnerships, said FT he had proposed the idea to both the president and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

“I am of Italian descent and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a tournament organized by the US,” he said.

“With four titles, they have the pedigree that warrants inclusion.”

Italy are currently not participating in the tournament after failing to make the play-offs.

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

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

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

“Iran must come, they represent their people, they have qualified, the players want to play,” he said last month.

“Sport should be outside politics.”

“The Iranian national football team is welcome at the World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate for them to be there for their own lives and safety,” he said last month.

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

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

Two years later he introduced her to Trump.

Zampolli is accused of inciting the arrest and deportation of his ex.

Amanda Ungaro had lived in the US for decades after flying in from Brazil on Epstein’s plane.

After a long battle for custody of their 16-year-old son, Ungaro was arrested by ICE agents and after several months in custody, he was returned to Brazil.

The New York Times reported that Zampolli requested Ungaro be placed in ICE detention.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Be the first to receive your latest news and exclusive stories by following us on all platforms.