Andrea Pirlo Withdraws from Italy Coach Race Amid Russian Sponsorship Controversy
Andrea Pirlo has removed himself from consideration to become Italy’s next head coach after political pressure over his sponsorship deal with Russian betting firm Fonbet halted his candidacy.
The 47‑year‑old former midfielder had emerged as a leading candidate after receiving backing from new FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini, especially after Pep Guardiola declined the Azzurri role.
Pirlo was close to finalising an agreement when several Italian politicians raised concerns about his role as a Fonbet ambassador, arguing that his commercial ties with the Russian betting company conflicted with Italy’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.
On Monday, Pirlo confirmed he is no longer in the running, insisting his partnership with Fonbet is linked to his coaching position at Dubai United and carries no political meaning.
He said, “In recent days I have witnessed with great bitterness the debate that has developed around my name and the possibility of taking on the role of Head Coach of the Italian national team… Out of respect for the institutions, the Federation, and all those involved, I have chosen to remain silent until now… I feel it is my duty to clarify certain aspects.”
Pirlo added that throughout his career, as a player and now as a coach, he has always complied with the laws of the countries where he has worked and the contracts he has signed. He stressed that the professional collaboration at the centre of the controversy arose during his time in the United Arab Emirates and is purely commercial and sporting.
However, Dubai United owner Sergey Lomakin reportedly said the sponsorship was not a mandatory part of Pirlo’s coaching contract, and Italian rules prohibit betting‑related advertising, endorsements and sponsorships, further fuelling the debate.
Pirlo maintained that critics wrongly attributed political beliefs to him, saying, “Attributing political meaning to this collaboration means attributing to me beliefs I have never expressed and that are not mine.” He thanked Maldini and Leonardo for their trust and expressed regret that a sporting decision was dragged into a public debate that assigned him motives he does not hold.
He concluded, “My love for Italy does not depend on a position. It is part of my history, my identity, and will continue to accompany me, always.”
Reports suggest Maldini is unhappy with the block on Pirlo’s appointment and may consider resigning as FIGC technical director. Pirlo had been viewed as a fallback after Carlo Ancelotti and Guardiola reportedly turned down approaches to lead Italy, a side still seeking stability after failing to qualify for the last three FIFA World Cups.
With Pirlo out, former Italy managers Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte have returned to the shortlist.
About the Author
