Topic: Soccer

Paolo Zampolli suggested Italy replace Iran in the World Cup.

In short:

Italy dismissed the idea to replace Iran, calling it 'shameful'.

The idea came from US special envoy Paolo Zampolli, a Trump ally.

What's next?

The World Cup starts June 12, with Iran's first match on June 16.

Italian sports officials say Italy won't replace Iran in the World Cup.

Iran hasn't withdrawn from the World Cup and is preparing to play.

FIFA insists the group stage games will go ahead as planned.

The Financial Times reported Zampolli suggested the swap to Trump and FIFA.

Iran war live updates are available on our blog.

Zampolli said his request wasn't political, but a contingency plan.

Andrea Abodi says the idea is bad.

Zampolli had a dream for the Italian people and American-Italian people.

He thinks Italy's appearance in the World Cup would be justified.

Italian officials pushed back hard at the suggestion.

Sports Minister Andrea Abodi said it's not possible and not a good idea.

Luciano Buonfiglio, Italian Olympic Committee president, also dismissed the idea.

Buonfiglio said you need to deserve to go to the World Cup.

Italy's Finance Minister called the suggested swap 'shameful'.

Giancarlo Giorgetti said the idea was 'shameful'.

Trump was asked about Iranian soccer players and joked about it.

Trump then deferred to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Rubio said the problem with Iran is not the athletes, but others they might bring.

Rubio said some Iranians may not be allowed into the country for the World Cup.

Rubio mentioned speculation that Iran might not come, and Italy could fill their spot.

Rubio said if Iran decides not to come, it's their decision.

Practice Listening