Russische betting scandal shatters Italiaanse coach hopes for Pirlo
The Russian betting scandal that linked Andrea Pirlo to the bookmaker Fonbet has abruptly ended his bid to become the Italiaanse head coach of the national team, stripping him of his status as the frontrunner and prompting the federation to reject his appointment.
De Italian federation announced that Pirlo will not assume the role, citing the controversy as decisive. The statement came after the scandal involving the Russian bookmaker was made public.
Pirlo was the top candidate for the job, but his involvement with the Russian bookmaker Fonbet put a definitive end to his appointment. His appearance in advertising for the betting office proved a deal‑breaker for the federation.
Giovanni Malagò, chairman of the Italian football federation, discovered Pirlo’s promotion of Fonbet and acted quickly. The issue is especially sensitive because Italy and Russia have had strained relations since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Pirlo’s lawyers argued that his contract with United FC (Dubai) forced him to accept the endorsement. Sergej Lomakin publicly denied that claim.
Hij wrote on social media: “I have long chosen to stay silent, but after learning I am no longer a candidate, I feel it is my duty to clarify.” He added: “Throughout my career I have always fully respected the laws of the countries where I have worked and the contracts I have signed.”
Technical director Paolo Maldini, who played alongside Gennaro Gattuso at AC Milan, now threatens to leave and says the loss of his dream candidate Pirlo is unacceptable. Earlier, Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti had already rejected the coaching position, leaving Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini as possible replacements.
The contrast between early optimism about Pirlo’s possible appointment and the sudden collapse caused by the Russische affair highlights unrest within the Italian football hierarchy. The federation will now evaluate the remaining candidates while dealing with the scandal’s aftermath.