Abodi praises Mancini, criticises Malagò and pushes Bianchedi to resign
The FIGC is experiencing an intense day: on one hand it presents the stadium dossier to UEFA ahead of Euro 2032, on the other the National Team is preparing for the Friday clash against France, while Minister Andrea Abodi weighs in on Mancini, Malagò and the delegation.
Stadium dossier and prospects for Euro 2032
In the afternoon the federation handed over the stadium dossier to UEFA, a crucial step to secure the facilities required for the upcoming Euro 2032. The initiative, coordinated by the FIGC, underscores Italy's commitment to providing adequate infrastructure. The presentation took place on the same day the National Team is focusing on the match against France.
The work on the dossier was described as “an opportunity for Italy to showcase its organisational capacity”. The document contains technical details, renovation plans and proposals for new facilities. UEFA will assess the material in the coming months, with decisions that will affect the event's scheduling.
Comments from Abodi, Malagò and resignation of Bianchedi
Sports Minister Andrea Abodi praised Roberto Mancini's work, recalling the promise of a National Team capable of erasing recent disappointments. He then noted that “we have seen what Roberto Mancini promised us, namely a National Team able to wipe out feelings, disappointments and bitterness of recent years”. Abodi also commented on Federation President Giovanni Malagò, alluding to possible eligibility issues and a potential commissioner appointment.
Euro 2032, FIGC starts the decisive phase: dossier from Rome to Nyon
According to Abodi, the decision will rest with the Board and the National Council, with his oversight role limited to the CONI so as not to interfere with the work of the federations. He emphasized that the National Team is “calm and focused on doing its job”, but warned that the result will also depend on the opponents.
In the context of the FIPE commissioner appointment, CONI President Petrucci reported that vice‑presidents Bianchedi and Di Paola always vote against President Buonfiglio. This dynamic highlighted an internal split, according to Bianchedi, concerned by the “single‑mind thinking”.
Diana Bianchedi, former fencer and Head of Delegation for the National Team, sent a resignation letter citing Abodi's statements and the controversies they sparked. In the letter she said she was acting “out of the great respect I have for the CONI, its Board, the FIGC and the sporting institutions”. She also declared her intention to protect the blue shirt from unnecessary controversy.
Euro 2032 dossier submission pushes Italy’s bid as UEFA readies checks
Bianchedi's resignation caps a day marked by long‑term projects for Euro 2032 and immediate tensions in the National Team’s management. The contrast between the strategic vision and internal disputes highlights the challenges the FIGC will face in the coming months.