Italy's Minister of Sport, Andrea Abodi, described as unacceptable the proposal to replace Iran with Italy at the World Cup, rejecting any idea that the "Squadra Azzurra" could secure a last-minute spot in this year's tournament.
It was revealed on Wednesday that Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy for Donald Trump, had suggested giving Italy a "fast track" entry to the World Cup, despite their unexpected defeat to Bosnia in last month's play-offs.
Zampolli argued that the Azzurri "have the sporting prestige to justify their participation."
However, Abodi emphasized that football's premier competition must remain meritocratic.
"The potential presence of Italy in the 2026 World Cup, which is reportedly proposed to FIFA by US President Donald Trump's envoy, Paolo Zampolli, is firstly not feasible and secondly not right," Abodi told Sky News. "I know that qualification is decided on the pitch."
Should Iran's situation change, there is no clear sporting rationale for them to be replaced by Italy.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), as the highest-ranked Asian team that did not qualify, is likely to be at the stadiums in America.
It is worth noting that Italy's third consecutive exclusion from a World Cup finals has caused intense concern in Italian football.
Last month, federation president Gabriele Gravina resigned, while Gennaro Gattuso stepped down as national team coach.
At the same time, the country is at risk regarding the co-hosting of Euro 2032 with Turkey.