Overview
- Large majorities in two surveys oppose a non-sporting entry, with La Gazzetta dello Sport’s online poll showing 78% against and an IZI survey finding about 70% opposed.
- Italy’s sports minister Andrea Abodi says a reinstatement is not possible or appropriate and that qualification must be earned on the field.
- CONI president Luciano Buonfiglio calls the idea offensive and says the World Cup must be merited.
- The proposal, floated by Paolo Zampolli to add Italy if Iran withdrew, remains only theoretical as Iran still intends to take part.
- U.S. leaders play down involvement, with President Donald Trump saying he is not focused on it and Secretary of State Marco Rubio denying any U.S. message barring Iran while citing security concerns about people linked to the Revolutionary Guard.