Andrea Pirlo Ruled Out Of Italy Job After Russian Betting Firm Links Spark Backlash
Sports Updated: 27 July 2026 16:25 EAT
Photo Courtesy
Andrea Pirlo has been ruled out of contention to become Italy's next national team manager after a wave of criticism over his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet. The former Italy midfielder, who had emerged as a leading candidate for the role, confirmed that he was no longer being considered following mounting political and public pressure.
Pirlo's candidacy came under scrutiny because of his role as a global ambassador for Fonbet, one of Russia's largest bookmakers. The 47-year-old signed the endorsement deal while coaching United FC in Dubai and later attended a Fonbet-organised football event at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium alongside former Italy defender Marco Materazzi.
The association triggered criticism from several senior Italian politicians, who argued that appointing a coach with ongoing commercial links to a Russian company would send the wrong message amid Russia's continued war in Ukraine. European Parliament Vice-President Pina Picierno, Senate President Ignazio La Russa and opposition leader Carlo Calenda were among those who publicly opposed Pirlo's appointment.
Pirlo defended his position, insisting that his agreement with Fonbet was purely commercial and had no political implications. In a statement, he said all his professional activities had complied with the law and that he had never intended to create controversy through his business partnerships.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) had reportedly viewed Pirlo as one of the favourites to take charge of the Azzurri following changes to the national team's coaching structure. However, the backlash over his Russian betting links ultimately ended his chances before formal negotiations could be completed.
The controversy has also placed renewed focus on the growing influence of political and ethical considerations in football appointments, particularly regarding relationships with Russian businesses following international sanctions and widespread condemnation of the invasion of Ukraine.
Pirlo, one of Italy's greatest midfielders and a key member of the country's 2006 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, will now continue his coaching career with Dubai-based United FC. Meanwhile, the FIGC has resumed its search for a new national team manager as Italy looks to rebuild and prepare for its upcoming international fixtures.
Tags: Signs Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstvkenya
Share this article
FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD