Paolo Maldini resigns from Italian Football Federation amid crisis
On July 28, 2026, Paolo Maldini and Leonardo unexpectedly resigned from their positions at the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) just 16 days after appointment, amid an ongoing crisis. Their departure followed the failed attempt to appoint Andrea Pirlo as national team coach, due to backlash over his commercial ties. Italy’s team remains without a clear rebuilding strategy after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time. Giovanni Malagò, the recently appointed FIGC president, now faces the challenge of steering the federation through instability.
Key facts
- Maldini and Leonardo quit FIGC 16 days after appointment
- Departure followed backlash over Andrea Pirlo's failed national coach appointment
- Italian football faces instability after missing three consecutive World Cups
Why it matters
Italy's football governance crisis signals ongoing challenges in one of world football's traditional powers, contrasting with Asia's rising football competitiveness, including Vietnam's progress. This context is important for global football observers tracking leadership and performance trends in major football nations.
Source and method
This brief was written by Daily Vietnam's editing desk from a report published by Thanh Niên - Thể thao, using AI assistance and a fixed editorial structure. It contains only facts established by that report and adds nothing from outside it. It is a summary for readers who do not read Vietnamese, not a replacement for the original. All reporting credit belongs to Thanh Niên - Thể thao.
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