Gabriele Gravina has resigned from his role as head of the Italian Football Federation, subsequent to Italy’s inability to secure a spot in a third successive World Cup.
The 72-year-old validated his departure subsequent to an assembly at the federation’s principal office in Rome, thereby concluding the escalating strain following yet another play-off setback.
Italy faced elimination via penalty shootout against Bosnia and Herzegovina, signifying their absence from this summer’s competition in North America.
Initially, Gravina had intended to postpone his decision regarding his future until a pre-arranged board gathering, but the magnitude of the reversal expedited his exit.
The FIGC has verified that a fresh presidential ballot is scheduled for June, with Giovanni Malago listed among the prospective contenders to assume the position.
Will Gattuso also depart?
His departure might also bear consequences for the national squad’s structure. Manager Gennaro Gattuso, whose existing contract extends until the warmer months, had previously received Gravina’s support and might now confront ambiguity regarding his own role.
Gravina had held the reins since 2018, assuming the role permanently subsequent to Carlo Tavecchio’s resignation following Italy’s play-off loss to Sweden.
Throughout his leadership, the most notable accomplishment occurred at Euro 2020, where Italy, under the guidance of Roberto Mancini, triumphed in the tournament after overcoming England at Wembley.
Nevertheless, successive failures to qualify for the World Cup and an underwhelming defense of the European Championship eventually weakened his standing.
Gravina additionally attracted censure for recent remarks likening football to various other sports within Italy, notwithstanding the nation’s triumphs across numerous fields, encompassing substantial medal collections at both Winter and Summer Olympic Games.