Esporte minister’s rebuke forces Diana Bianchedi quit Italy delegation
Diana Bianchedi resigned on Wednesday the 30th as head of delegation for the Italy national football team after being publicly criticised by Esporte minister Andrea Abodi. The former Olympic fencer had held the post for less than two months, having been appointed in August.
Short tenure and dual responsibilities
Bianchedi took over the delegation in early August, a post previously occupied by Italian football icons Gianluca Vialli and the late Luigi Riva. Her appointment sparked debate because she had no prior football experience, balancing it with her role as vice‑president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI).
A former Olympic champion in fencing, Bianchedi brought a distinguished sporting résumé to the administrative side of the game. Her athletic credentials underline a lifelong involvement in elite sport.
The controversy intensified when Bianchedi voiced opposition to a proposal to appoint a commissioner for the Italian Weightlifting Federation (Fipe). Her stance clashed with the sports minister’s view, feeding a media storm that questioned the compatibility of her dual responsibilities.
Ministerial criticism and resignation
Andrea Abodi publicly questioned Bianchedi’s position, arguing that a vice‑president of CONI should not repeatedly oppose ministerial proposals. He warned that such persistent dissent could jeopardise the trust required for the role.
Abodi praises Mancini, criticises Malagò and pushes Bianchedi to resign
Abodi added that relationships of this nature “normally do not last long in the role and the function”. His remarks followed a broader dispute within the CONI board over the handling of the weightlifting federation.
The resignation sparked a flurry of commentary in Italian sport media, with many outlets questioning whether the delegation role was compatible with Bianchedi’s CONI duties. Observers noted that the position, traditionally held by former football greats, now faced scrutiny as an Italiana appointment lacking football pedigree.
In her resignation letter, Bianchedi wrote, “I have always acted with integrity and seriousness, respecting the rules and people for the good of Sport, values now unfairly questioned.” She said she stepped down “to protect the Italy national team from unnecessary controversy” and thanked the coach, players and staff for their warm welcome.
A photo caption accompanying the announcement read “Foto: ANSA / Ansa – Brasil”, confirming the agency that supplied the image. The episode leaves the delegation post vacant as the Italian federation prepares for upcoming fixtures.