Gravina Explains Resignation After Italy Fails to Reach 2026 World Cup
Gabriele Gravina has resigned as President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), describing his decision as "personal, convinced, and carefully meditated" following Italy's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His resignation, anticipated after the penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, was announced at an emergency meeting of Italian football authorities.
Gravina's departure was swiftly followed by delegation chief Gigi Buffon, and coach Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to step down as well. This cascade of resignations marks a significant upheaval in Italian football, triggered by the national team's inability to reach a third consecutive World Cup.
Gravina, who held the presidency since October 2018, expressed "a feeling of sadness, but also of calm" as he left the Federation headquarters. He thanked the Federation members for their support, noting their insistence for him to continue, but affirmed his personal decision. Further details are expected to be released in a statement.
Adding to the turmoil, confusion arose regarding a planned presentation to the Government on April 8. The FIGC initially announced it would proceed, but the Commission for Sport subsequently confirmed its cancellation.
Elections for a new FIGC President are scheduled for June 22. It is anticipated that Italy's new national team coach will be appointed only after the new President takes office. The election involves 274 delegates, with votes distributed among representatives from Serie A, Serie B, Lega Pro, the Amateur League (LND), the Players’ Association, and the Coaches’ Association.
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