United States President Donald Trump has publicly addressed speculation surrounding a proposal to swap Iran for Italy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering his first comments on a debate that has drawn in senior US officials and rattled football's governing bodies.

The suggestion emerged against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions and concerns over the vetting of Iranian officials seeking entry into the United States. Reports indicated that Iran's participation could be undermined by strict US visa protocols targeting members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), prompting rumours that Italy — the highest-ranked nation to miss out on qualification — could receive a wildcard berth should Iran withdraw or be removed.

Trump's response