An effort by U.S. special envoy Paolo Zampolli to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup shows the “moral bankruptcy” of the U.S., according to Iran's embassy in Italy.

Zampolli made headlines this week when he said he had floated the idea to U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

"I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I’m an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a U.S.-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion," Zampolli told the Financial Times.

Iran's status for the 2026 World Cup is still up in the air amid an ongoing war with the United States and Israel.

FIFA would have broad latitude to replace Iran if it withdraws, but FIFA president Gianni Infantino said last week that "the Iranian team is coming, for sure."

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Though Iran has previously indicated that it may withdraw, this week a government spokeswoman said Team Melli is "fully prepared" to play at the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Iran was one of the first teams to qualify for the tournament, and is scheduled to play all three of its group stage games in the United States.

Team Melli is scheduled to play New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

After news of Zampolli's efforts spread, Iran's embassy in Italy released a blistering statement on X.

"Football belongs to the people, not to politicians. Italy has achieved the greatness of football on the field, not thanks to political rents," it said.

"The attempt to exclude Iran from the World Cup only shows the 'moral bankruptcy' of the United States, which even fear the presence of 11 young Iranians on the playing field."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Iran in World Cup 2026: USA envoy slammed for Italy replacement ask