Ghana’s top stories, now easier to find. Discover our new search feature!A fresh wave of controversy has swept through world football after a proposal linked to Donald Trump suggested a dramatic alteration to the 2026 FIFA World Cup lineup.At the heart of the debate is a reported push to replace Iran with Italy, following the Azzurri's failure to qualify for the tournament set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.The idea is said to have been floated by US envoy Paolo Zampolli, who reportedly raised it with Gianni Infantino. PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app!His argument extends beyond sporting merit, touching on diplomatic considerations between Washington and Rome.Read alsoNew Black Stars assistant coach opens up ahead of 2026 WC: "It's gonna be difficult"Speaking to the Financial Times, Zampolli explained his stance:The suggestion comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the Middle East. Reports of military action involving the United States and Israel have intensified scrutiny around Iran’s participation, especially with all their group matches scheduled to take place on American soil.Concerns have also been raised within Iran. The country’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali acknowledged logistical and security challenges, while the national federation explored the possibility of moving fixtures away from the United States.Despite mounting pressure, FIFA has remained firm. The global governing body has rejected proposals to relocate matches to Mexico and insists that the competition will proceed as planned.Read alsoNew Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz set to arrive in Ghana: Key details emergeInfantino has already shut down speculation about any change to the qualified teams, stating clearly, as cited by ESPN:Earlier discussions had also pointed to Iraq as a potential replacement, but their playoff victory over Bolivia effectively ended that possibility. For Italy, the situation adds intrigue, as the four-time world champions missed out via the UEFA playoffs – lending some weight to the proposal put forward by Paolo Zampolli.Ultimately, the decision rests with FIFA, which, under its World Cup regulations, has the authority to select any replacement should Iran withdraw. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) would be expected to push for a team from its region, with the United Arab Emirates emerging as a logical candidate after narrowly missing out on qualifying. However, unlike Italy, the UAE lack significant World Cup pedigree, with their only appearance coming in 1990, where they exited at the group stage without a win.Read alsoCalls grow for GFA to replace Carlos Queiroz with Hervé RenardIn a previous publication, YEN.com.gh reported that FIFA holds full authority if Iran withdraws from the 2026 World Cup. Any boycott of the tournament could attract sanctions, including a fine of at least 250,000 Swiss francs.JOIN IN: Suspicious Content In Your Feed? Bust It With Our Free and Brief Fact-Checking Course. Get a Certificate!Source: YEN.com.gh Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: [email protected].