Trump Envoy's World Cup Plot

The proposal by envoy Paolo Zampolli would see Italy take Iran's spot in the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States.

Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup on the pitch, but the Trump administration is reportedly looking for a 'wildcard' entry to mend fences with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

The move has been met with skepticism from soccer officials and has drawn sharp criticism from Tehran, which maintains its team is fully prepared to participate.

The controversy highlights the administration's willingness to use major sporting events as leverage in its broader geopolitical strategy.