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. The resignation followed pressure from the Italian government and widespread dissatisfaction with the sport’s performance.
The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Meloni, demanded the resignation of the FIGC president due to Italy’s repeated failures to qualify for major tournaments. This followed a defeat in the European playoff final against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The situation was further complicated by widespread protests and calls for change within Italian football. The FIGC board considered resignations and the appointment of a commissioner. Elections for a new president are scheduled for June 22nd, and the Italian Minister of Sport, Andrea Abodi, believes a fundamental restructuring of Italian football is needed.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Gravina Resigns After 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 Changes
The Italian government, through Minister Andrea Abodi, demanded the resignation of the FIGC president due to Italy’s World Cup qualification failure.
Buffon Also Steps Down
Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and Gabriele Gravina both resigned from their positions within the Italian Football Federation.
Elections Scheduled for June 22nd
Following Gravina’s resignation, elections will be held on June 22nd to determine the new president of the FIGC.
Political Crisis in Italian Football
The situation has become a political crisis within Italian sports governance, with calls for a ‘clean-out’ of the FIGC.
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