The Future of Italian Football: A New Era for the FIGC
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is undergoing a significant transition, with Giovanni Malagò and Giancarlo Abete competing to lead the governing body following the resignation of Gabriele Gravina. This leadership change aims to address deep-seated issues, including the national team’s struggles, a lack of investment in youth development, and a cultural identity crisis that has hindered the growth of the sport in Italy.
Who are the candidates for the FIGC presidency?
The two primary candidates for the FIGC presidency are Giovanni Malagò and Giancarlo Abete. According to official records, Malagò, 67, brings experience as the former president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and leader of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics organizing committee. His candidacy has secured support from the Lega Serie A, Lega Serie B, the players’ union (AIC), and the coaches’ association.
Giancarlo Abete, 75, is a veteran of the federation, having served as FIGC president from 2007 to 2014. Currently the president of the Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (LND), Abete emphasizes his deep roots in the organization. While Malagò faced initial questions regarding "pantouflage" regulations—laws preventing former officials from immediately taking certain roles—the National Anti-Corruption Authority (ANAC) confirmed his eligibility, stating the rules do not apply to this specific electoral context.
What are the core challenges facing the new leadership?
The incoming president faces a system described by outgoing leader Gabriele Gravina as suffering from a "crisis of cultural identity." A major point of contention is the state of Italian stadium infrastructure. Gravina, in his final address to the assembly on June 22, 2026, noted that the country is "dramatically behind" in modernizing its venues.
Beyond infrastructure, internal debates focus heavily on the "Zola reform" and the necessity of youth investment. Matteo Marani, president of Lega Pro, argued that the system has failed to capitalize on young talent, suggesting that 1% of betting revenues should be redirected toward youth academies rather than supporting aging foreign players. Meanwhile, Paolo Bedin of Lega Serie B highlighted that the lack of financial sustainability is creating high barriers to entry for new investors, effectively stifling the growth of the professional leagues.
How does the FIGC voting process work?
The election of the FIGC president is determined by a weighted voting system involving 274 delegates representing various sectors of the game. According to the federation’s electoral regulations, the total of 516 potential votes is distributed based on the relevance of each component. The Lega Nazionale Dilettanti holds the largest share of the voting power at 34%, followed by the players’ union (20%), Lega Serie A (18%), Lega Pro (12%), the coaches’ association (10%), and Lega Serie B (6%). To win, a candidate must secure an absolute majority—more than 50%—of the weighted votes cast.
Did you know? The average stadium attendance in Serie A has hit 30,000 for the third consecutive year, a milestone not seen in Italy since the 1990s, according to Lega Serie A president Ezio Maria Simonelli.
What role will the new president play in the national team?
One of the most immediate tasks for the new president will be the appointment of a new head coach for the national team. Following the consistent failure to qualify for major tournaments, the federation is under pressure to stabilize the squad. Reports indicate that Roberto Mancini is a primary candidate for a return to the bench. This decision will be one of the first formal acts of the new administration, alongside the appointment of a vice president and the finalization of the federal council.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Gabriele Gravina resign?
Gravina stated that his resignation was a "meditated and suffered" choice made to prevent the federation from being dragged into a "vortice" (vortex) of division and personal attacks. He emphasized that he stepped down to allow for a period of reflection and structural renewal.
What is the "Zola reform"?
It is a set of proposed reforms aimed at improving the development of young Italian players. It has received high-level attention, including acknowledgment from President Sergio Mattarella, though stakeholders like Matteo Marani have criticized parts of the system for failing to implement these changes effectively.
How does the weighted vote impact the election?
Because the LND holds 34% of the voting weight, their alignment is critical for any candidate. Smaller leagues like Serie B have less influence (6%), making the support of the larger amateur and professional blocs essential for reaching the 516-vote threshold.
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