In Italy, they were outraged by Infantino's joke about the country's football team

Italian Sports Minister Andrea Abodi intends to talk with FIFA President Gianni Infantino over his mocking remarks about the national team, which failed to qualify for the third World Cup in a row. This was reported by the ANSA news agency on June 13.

"With 64 teams, Italy could probably qualify. Maybe we should get to 208," Infantino joked in an interview.

Abodi said that given the long distance between Italy and Mexico, a telephone conversation to clarify the situation would be the best option.

"I am interested to know his opinion directly," said the Italian sports minister.

The Italian national team has failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row. The 2026 World Cup started on June 11 and will last until July 19. For the first time, the tournament is hosted by three countries — the USA, Canada and Mexico, and 48 national teams participate in it.