In a dramatic turn of events, Italy's soccer federation president Gabriele Gravina resigned on Thursday amid mounting political pressure, following the national team's third consecutive World Cup failure. The resignation comes just days after Italy's heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, sealing their fate and preventing qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Resignations Follow Italy's World Cup Exit
Gravina's resignation was swiftly followed by that of Gianluigi Buffon, who stepped down as the national team's delegation chief. The impact of these changes is expected to extend to coach Gennaro Gattuso, whose position may also be at risk after Italy's disappointing performance in the World Cup qualifiers. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi voiced the necessity for a shift in Italy’s soccer leadership, emphasizing that Italian soccer needs a comprehensive overhaul, starting with a new head at the FIGC (Italian Football Federation).
"This is a pivotal moment for Italian football," Abodi said, following Italy's exit. "The leadership needs to change, and that process must begin immediately."
A History of World Cup Heartbreak
Italy’s World Cup struggles stretch back beyond this year. The team failed to advance past the group stage in both the 2010 and 2014 World Cups and has now missed three consecutive tournaments. The most recent defeat, to Bosnia, only added to the nation's misery after they were eliminated by Sweden in 2018 and North Macedonia in 2022. Italy's last World Cup triumph came in 2006, when they won the title after defeating France in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Despite these setbacks, Gravina’s tenure wasn't without success. He led Italy to the European Championship title in 2021, but his leadership will now be defined by the failure to secure a place in the upcoming World Cups. In light of these events, there are calls from within the soccer community for new regulations to ensure more Italian players are included in Serie A teams.
What’s Next for Italy's Leadership?
As Italian football grapples with these leadership changes, a new president will be elected on June 22, 2026. Among the names being discussed as potential replacements for Gattuso are prominent coaches such as Roberto Mancini, Simone Inzaghi, Antonio Conte, and Massimiliano Allegri, all of whom have had notable stints in both club and international football. Mancini, who led Italy to European glory in 2021, had a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign, while Inzaghi and Allegri are both successful Serie A managers. Conte, currently with Napoli, also remains in the mix.
In addition to the task of reviving the national team, the incoming president will be expected to oversee the improvement of Italy's aging stadium infrastructure, especially in preparation for the Euro 2032 tournament, which Italy will co-host with Turkey. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has already expressed concerns about the state of the country's stadiums and the looming challenge of meeting the necessary standards for the prestigious tournament.
As Italy enters a new phase in its soccer leadership, the focus now shifts to rebuilding both the team and the infrastructure. With critical decisions ahead, the nation's footballing future hinges on the success of these changes and their ability to return to glory on the international stage.
