Gabriele Gravina steps down as FIGC President following Italy's failure to reach the 2026 World Cup after a shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Buffon exits, Gattuso expected to follow.
Gabriele Gravina has officially resigned as President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), confirming a decision described as 'personal, convinced, and carefully meditated' in the aftermath of Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The elimination came via a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night, a result that has sent shockwaves through Italian football. Gravina, who has led the FIGC since October 2018, made the announcement at an emergency meeting on Thursday, emphasizing that the decision was his own despite strong support from within the federation to remain in office.
His resignation marks the beginning of a sweeping institutional overhaul in Italian football, which has now failed to reach three consecutive World Cups—a historic low for a nation with four titles. The emotional weight of the moment was evident in Gravina’s brief remarks: 'After many years, there is a feeling of sadness, but also of calm.' He thanked federation members for their unwavering support, respect, and affection, but insisted his path forward was clear. The announcement paves the way for new leadership as Italian football confronts a deep structural crisis.
Shortly after Gravina’s announcement, national team delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon confirmed he was stepping down from his role. The legendary goalkeeper, who has served in an official capacity since his retirement, symbolized continuity and authority within the setup. His departure, while not unexpected, signals a complete break from the previous era. Head coach Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to follow, though no official statement has been released. His tenure, marked by inconsistent results and tactical uncertainty, now appears untenable.
Italy’s failure to qualify has reignited debates over youth development, tactical philosophy, and federation governance. The loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina—a team ranked well below the Azzurri—has been labeled a national embarrassment. Analysts point to a lack of long-term planning and overreliance on short-term fixes. With Euro 2028 on the horizon, the pressure is immense to rebuild both the team and the system that supports it.
Elections for a new FIGC President are scheduled for June 22, with 274 delegates set to vote. The electoral college is composed of representatives from Serie A (18%), Serie B (6%), Lega Pro (12%), Amateur League (LND, 34%), Players’ Association (20%), and Coaches’ Association (10%). The complex distribution ensures that no single entity holds a majority, often leading to protracted negotiations. Only after a new president is elected will Italy begin the search for a new national team coach.
'I made my decision, it was a personal and carefully meditated one,' said Gabriele Gravina.The road to redemption is long. The new leadership must address systemic issues, from coaching education to youth integration. With the 2026 World Cup dream shattered, the focus now shifts to restoring pride and preparing for Euro 2028. The June elections will determine whether Italian football chooses continuity or radical change.
