Abodi, who made a last-minute denial of claims that Italy would be included in the summer tournament, stressed that performance on football's biggest stage was crucial.
Controversial proposal from Trump's envoy
The offer for Italy, which suffered a major shock last month when it was eliminated in the play-off round by Bosnia-Herzegovina, came from Donald Trump's special envoy Paolo Zampolli.
Zampolli suggested that Italy, which has four World Cups, should be included in the tournament rather than Iran, which is at war with the United States and Israel, arguing that Italy's “historic success justifies it.”
However, Minister Abodi rejected the proposal, saying: “Firstly, this proposal is not possible and secondly, it is not suitable. I don't know which comes first but the qualifiers are won on the field.”
Iran's situation remains uncertain
Iran's participation in the tournament remains speculation.
Although the idea of moving Iran's group games from the host country to Mexico was on the agenda, this option does not appear to be viable at the moment.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran would take part in the tournament in his statement last month.
Even if Iran withdraws, it is seen as most likely to be replaced by the United Arab Emirates, the highest-scoring Asian country that has been eliminated, rather than Italy.
The crisis in Italian football is worsening
The football world is experiencing great change in Italy and is saddened by not being able to take part in the World Cup for the third year in a row.
This month, Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian Football Federation, and national coach Gennaro Gattuso resigned from their positions.
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