Donald Trump held his cards close to his chest when he was asked what he made of Italy potentially replacing Iran at this summer's World Cup. The President of the United States has previously explained that while the nation will be "welcome" at the tournament - which will be hosted across North America - despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
However, an envoy to Trump has now called upon FIFA to replace Iran with Italy, who failed to qualify for this year's tournament via a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this month. Paolo Zampoli said: "I can confirm that I have suggested to Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that Italy take Iran’s place at the World Cup.
"As an Italian native, it would be a dream to see the Azzurri competing in a tournament hosted by the United States. With four titles, they have the history and stature to warrant inclusion."
However, when asked about such a reality coming to fruition, Trump claimed he needed thinking time before giving his take. Answering the media at the Oval office this week, the 79-year-old said: "That’s an interesting question.
"You know what, let me give that a little thought. Is that what they’re doing? They’re thinking about replacing them?"
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was then asked to answer the question, to which he replied: "Nothing from the US has told them they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be with their athletes, it would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps).
"You know what, let me give that a little thought. Is that what they’re doing? They’re thinking about replacing them?"
Secretary of State Marco Rubio was then asked to answer the question, to which he replied: "Nothing from the US has told them they can't come. The problem with Iran would not be with their athletes, it would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps).
"There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represent their people – both those living in Iran and those living abroad. Iran will be at the FIFA World Cup, and we're excited because they're a very, very strong team, in my opinion, right now.
"So, I'm very happy. I've seen the team, I've spoken to the players and the coach. So, everything's fine. We're delighted because they are a very, very strong team. I'm very happy."
Elsewhere, Italy have also turned their noses up at the idea of playing in the World Cup in the essence of fairness, given they failed to rightfully qualify. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi told Sky News: "Italy's possible re-qualification for the 2026 World Cup...is firstly, not possible and secondly, not appropriate. I don't know what comes first. Qualification is on the pitch."
Elsewhere, Luciano Buonfiglio - who is the president of the Italian Olympic Committee - added: "I would feel offended. You need to deserve to go to the World Cup." Italy's Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti also labelled the idea as "shameful."