Andrea Pirlo is no longer in the race to become Italy’s next head coach after strong criticism over his links to a Russian betting company.
The Italian Football Federation had not confirmed his appointment. However, many reports had suggested that Pirlo was close to getting the job.
The issue began after politicians raised questions about his work with Russian betting company Fonbet.
Pirlo became a global ambassador for the company last October. Fonbet has supported sports events linked to veterans of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Pirlo has also attended events in Russia with people who support the Kremlin. Carlo Calenda of Italy’s Azione party said anyone who promoted Russia after 2022 should not hold a national role.
Pirlo responded in a statement on Instagram on Monday. He said he had learned that he was no longer a candidate for the Italy job. He also said the debate around his name had left him deeply upset.
Pirlo said his work with Fonbet was only linked to business and sport. He denied that the partnership showed any political belief or support.
European Parliament vice president Pina Picierno also criticised the possible appointment.
She said Italian football needed major changes in its culture, ethics and management. She added that choosing Pirlo would have moved the game in the wrong direction.
Pirlo received support from Russia’s ambassador to Italy, Aleksey Paramonov.
Paramonov said it was sad to see Pirlo face rejection in his own country despite his contribution to Italian and world football.
Questions over Pirlo’s links to Russia grew earlier this year. He attended a Fonbet event in Moscow with former Italy teammate Marco Materazzi. The pair signed autographs at the Luzhniki Stadium.
Russian singer Shaman also performed at the event. He has openly supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych later criticised Pirlo’s presence. He said the event took place on the same day that Russia launched a major attack on Ukraine.
Heraskevych also criticised Pirlo for appearing beside Russian footballer Artem Dzyuba. Dzyuba had earlier said that he was proud to be Russian.
The failed appointment could also create problems for new Italy technical director Paolo Maldini.
Italian reports say Maldini may consider leaving his role. He only took charge on July 11. Maldini and former AC Milan teammate Leonardo had been asked to find Italy’s next coach.
The new manager will lead Italy in a Nations League group with France, Belgium and Turkey. The main target will then be qualification for Euro 2028.
Italy are searching for answers after missing a third straight World Cup. The team lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in April. Gennaro Gattuso then left his role as head coach.
Italy had earlier approached Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti. Both turned down the opportunity.
Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini are now among the names linked with the position.
Mancini led Italy to the Euro 2020 title. He later failed to take the team to the 2022 World Cup before leaving to coach Saudi Arabia.
