Italy’s Minister for Sport, Andrea Abodi, has declared that “Italian football requires a complete overhaul,” emphasizing that this vital process “must commence with a refreshed leadership at the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).”
Abodi’s statements follow another disappointing World Cup qualification campaign, prompting his call for significant changes within Italian football. The national team, the Azzurri, failed to qualify for the tournament for the third consecutive time, having lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in Tuesday night’s play-off final.
“I extend my gratitude to the team and coach for their dedication shown last night, but it is clear that Italian football needs to be rebuilt, and this endeavor must begin with a new FIGC leadership,” Abodi asserted in a statement released Wednesday morning.
He further elaborated on football’s significance: “While football is a sport and should not be overly burdened with meaning during challenging times of military and economic crises, it’s undeniable that in Italy, it transcends mere sport. It has become deeply woven into our popular culture, a cherished communal ritual, and a profound source of international prestige.”
Abodi expressed his sadness, reflecting, “It saddens me deeply to consider that an entire generation of children and young people has yet to experience the thrill of watching our national team compete in a World Cup.”
Despite mounting pressure in Italy, FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has refused to step down. Gravina, who assumed leadership in 2018, was re-elected in February 2025 with an overwhelming 98.68% of the votes.
During his press conference the previous night, Gravina had advocated for measures to support the wider football system. However, Abodi countered this, stating that the FIGC President should instead accept accountability for the recent failures.
“The Government has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the entire Italian sports movement over the years,” Abodi highlighted.
He continued, “Our athletes have brought us immense pride and satisfaction across numerous disciplines. Therefore, I find it objectively unfair to disclaim personal responsibility for the third successive World Cup qualification failure by blaming institutions for alleged shortcomings or by downplaying the professional standing of other sports.”
“We will uphold our institutional responsibilities, as we always have. Yet, what is truly required now is responsibility, humanity, and mutual respect from everyone involved. Italy must reclaim its status, even on the global football stage.”
Meanwhile, the Italian squad returned home on Wednesday morning, landing at Malpensa Airport just hours after their defeat in Bosnia.