Giovanni Malagò faces investigation into FIGC presidency eligibility

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is facing a potential leadership crisis following an investigation into the eligibility of its president, Giovanni Malagò. The inquiry, prompted by a complaint from lawyer and former Lazio player Renato Miele, focuses on whether Malagò met the mandatory registration requirements stipulated in Article 29 of the FIGC Statute at the time of his election on June 22.

While previous sports tribunals had dismissed Miele’s challenges due to a lack of standing, the CONI General Prosecutor, Ugo Taucer, has formally requested that the FIGC Federal Prosecutor, Giuseppe Chinè, open an official proceeding. The investigation aims to verify the validity and effective dates of Malagò’s federation membership to determine if his candidacy was legally sound.

If irregularities are confirmed, the consequences could include the annulment of the elections or the appointment of a federal commissioner to oversee the FIGC. Such an outcome could also jeopardize existing federation decisions, including the appointment of Roberto Mancini as the head coach of the Italian national team.

Separately, Diana Bianchedi has accepted the role of head of delegation for the Italian national team, a move appointed by Malagò that has raised questions regarding potential incompatibility with her current role as vice president of CONI.