UEFA warns Italy over political interference in FIGC

According to Corriere della Sera, UEFA is strongly opposed to the appointment of a commissioner to the FIGC, warning that such a move could jeopardize Italy’s right to host Euro 2032 and even lead to the exclusion of Italian clubs from European competitions.

UEFA does not expect any political interference in the FIGC presidential elections scheduled for June 22, 2026, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

A new refereeing scandal has erupted in Italy just weeks after Gabriele Gravina resigned following Italy’s elimination from the World Cup playoffs. This prompted Sports Minister Andrea Abodi to suggest extraordinary measures, such as appointing an external FIGC commissioner.

However, such a scenario would deeply concern UEFA, which has warned that any political intervention in the Italian Football Federation could result in:

- Italy losing co-hosting rights for Euro 2032
- Italian clubs being banned from European competitions

According to the report, Ezio Maria Simonelli has already discussed the matter with UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin.

Although UEFA has not issued an official statement, its position is considered clear and could lead to serious consequences if a commissioner is appointed instead of an elected president.

“Any rushed decisions are inappropriate while we wait for investigations to reach the truth. None of us knows the details, and as custodians, it is our duty to wait for the final decision,” Simonelli said.

If a commissioner is appointed by CONI, it would effectively place the FIGC under administration — a scenario UEFA is keen to avoid.