Marco Travaglio's anti‑nationalist comments draw Matteo Renzi rebuttal in Italy

Journalist Marco Travaglio said in a podcast that he "tifo contro l'Italia" and "ho goduto per il mancato Mondiale", expressing pleasure at Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup. He also dismissed Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner, preferring Spanish player Carlos Alcaraz.

Politician Matteo Renzi responded on social media, condemning Travaglio’s stance and accusing those who celebrate national defeats of “hate and selfishness”. Renzi criticised the journalist’s attitude toward patriotism and warned it undermines genuine passion for sport and country.