ROME: Italian sports officials have made it clear that four-time champion Italy is not interested in replacing Iran at the upcoming World Cup, following a suggestion to that effect by a Trump administration official.

The Financial Times reported that Paolo Zampolli, the US special envoy for global partnerships, had suggested the swap to President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

According to Zampolli, his request was not politically motivated, aiming to fulfill what he perceived as Italy's rightful place in the tournament due to its historical achievements.

However, Italian officials, including Sports Minister Andrea Abodi and Luciano Buonfiglio, the president of the Italian Olympic Committee, dismissed the suggestion outright, emphasizing that Italy should earn its spot on the field rather than through political maneuvers.

The idea was also met with criticism from Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, who described it as 'shameful'.

The debate surrounding Iran's participation in the World Cup has been ongoing since the US and Israel launched military attacks on the country in February.

FIFA remains resolute that Iran will adhere to its scheduled games in the US, despite safety concerns raised by President Trump.

The Iranian embassy in Rome denounced Zampolli's suggestion, highlighting that football belongs to the people rather than politicians and criticizing the 'moral bankruptcy' of the United States.

Meanwhile, uncertainty lingers over potential replacements should Iran withdraw from the tournament, with the United Arab Emirates being a likely candidate as the highest-ranked Asian team that did not qualify.

The exact provisions regarding replacement teams in the World Cup rules also remain unclear.