Gravina Resigns as Italian Football Chief
Following Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, Gabriele Gravina resigned as president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Gianluigi Buffon also resigned from his position. The resignation followed pressure from the Italian government and widespread dissatisfaction with the sport’s performance.
The Italian government, led by Minister Andrea Abodi, demanded Gabriele Gravina’s resignation due to Italy’s repeated failures to qualify for major tournaments, including the World Cup. This situation was compounded by a heated day of protests from fans and former players regarding the FIGC’s leadership. Elections are scheduled for June 22nd to determine a new president for the FIGC. The resignation of Gravina and Buffon represents a significant shift in leadership within Italian football, and the government is advocating for a fundamental restructuring of the sport.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Gravina Resigns Following World Cup Failure
Gabriele Gravina, the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), resigned following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Government Demands FIGC Leadership Resignations
The Italian government, through Minister Andrea Abodi, demanded the resignation of the FIGC president due to Italy’s World Cup qualification failure.
Elections Scheduled for June 22nd
Following Gravina’s resignation, elections will be held on June 22nd to determine the new president of the FIGC.
Buffon Also Steps Down
Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and the Italian Football Federation president have announced their resignations.
FIGC Leadership Shakeup
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) experienced a leadership shakeup with President Gabriele Gravina’s resignation, alongside other departures.
Perspectives
- Gabriele Gravina resigned as president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
- Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- The Italian government pressured Gravina to resign.
- Elections will be held on June 22nd to choose a new FIGC president.
The Italian government wants to remove the FIGC leadership due to the failure to qualify. They believe a new approach is needed. (Source: Politico EU, La Repubblica, Púbico)
Politico EU, La Repubblica, Público
Gravina and the FIGC board believe they are responsible for the failure and should not be scapegoated. (Source: ANSA, La Repubblica, ANSA)
ANSA, La Repubblica, ANSA
The primary issue is the leadership of the FIGC and the need for new figures. (Source: ANSA, La Repubblica, ANSA, Le Monde)
ANSA, La Repubblica, ANSA, Le Monde
The problem is deeper, involving the entire structure and performance of Italian football. (Source: Andrea Abodi, ANSA, ZEIT Online)
Andrea Abodi, ANSA, ZEIT Online