FIGC Launches Investigation into Pirlo’s Fonbet Links
Andrea Pirlo’s prospects of becoming Italy’s next head coach have been cast into doubt after the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) opened an inquiry into his commercial ties with Fonbet, a Russian‑backed betting company that is prohibited from operating in Italy.
Pirlo had been on the verge of securing the national‑team job, but FIGC President Giovanni Malagò decided to halt the appointment process while the federation examines his role as a commercial ambassador for the gambling firm.
The matter has drawn political criticism, with European Parliament Vice‑President Pina Picierno and Senate President Ignazio La Russa arguing that any affiliation with a Russian betting entity is incompatible with leading the Italian national side.
In response, Pirlo expressed disappointment over the debate, insisting that the partnership has been misunderstood. He wrote that, out of respect for the institutions and all involved, he had remained silent until now, but felt compelled to clarify the facts.
He stressed that throughout his career — first as a player and now as a coach — he has always acted in full compliance with the laws of the countries where he has worked and honoured the contracts he has signed. The collaboration with Fonbet, he said, arose exclusively from his professional experience in the United Arab Emirates and is purely commercial and sporting in nature.
Assigning a political motive to that collaboration, Pirlo added, attributes beliefs to him that he has never held. He thanked Paolo Maldini and Leonardo for their continued trust and praised their dedication to Italian football.
Pirlo lamented that a purely sporting consideration was quickly turned into a public confrontation that ascribed meanings and intentions to him that do not reflect his views. He reiterated that his love for Italy is rooted in his personal history and identity, independent of any job title.
The FIGC has not yet announced when its review will be completed, leaving Pirlo’s expected appointment hanging in the balance.
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