Italian football pushes inclusion and reform after World Cup snub

The Balon Mundial festival, held from 13 June to 5 July 2026 in Turin, showcased football as a tool to combat intolerance and marginalisation. Organisers reported about a thousand participants, including children, and incorporated cultural workshops and artistic sessions. Local officials praised the event, with the commission on combating intolerance and racism expressing full support.

On 6 July in Florence, a forum titled “La geopolitica del pallone” gathered sport officials, club directors and politicians to debate a draft law presented by Senator Paolo Marcheschi aimed at overhauling the Italian football system. The discussion focused on youth development and financial sustainability following the national team’s exclusion from the upcoming World Cup.

Both initiatives highlight a broader push in Italy to use football for social inclusion while seeking structural reforms.