Giovanni Malagò elected FIGC president, tasked with reviving Italian football

Giovanni Malagò, 67‑year‑old former CONI president, won the emergency FIGC election with 68.58% of the vote, defeating Giancarlo Abete. He says “da solo non posso fare niente, insieme possiamo fare tutto,” and outlines a programme to address structural problems that have left Italy’s national team missing three consecutive World Cups.

Malagò’s first priorities are to rebuild the federation’s technical department, restore financial stability and re‑establish a strong relationship with the clubs. He plans to appoint a Technical Director – initially targeting former Milan captain Paolo Maldini – but Maldini has reportedly declined the role. The search for a new head coach now focuses on Antonio Conte, who is gaining support from Serie A club executives, and Roberto Mancini, though budget limits remain a concern. Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi has pledged cooperation, saying “mi auguro che il primo passo lo sappia fare il sistema calcio.”

The federation will convene its first council meeting on 1 July, during which decisions on the technical staff, the national team budget and the upcoming Euro 2032 and World Cup 2030 qualifiers are expected.