Pirlo withdraws from Italy coaching race amid Fonbet backlash

Andrea Pirlo has abandoned his bid to become the next head coach of the Italian national team, following intense criticism over his role as a global ambassador for Russian betting operator Fonbet. Reports in the Italian press, including front-page coverage in La Gazzetta dello Sport, indicate that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has decided not to pursue his appointment.

Pirlo addressed the controversy on Instagram, insisting the collaboration was “exclusively commercial and sporting in nature” and that any interpretation of political intent was unfounded. The partnership first came to light over the weekend and immediately clashed with Italy’s strict gambling advertising laws, notably the Dignity Decree, which bans all forms of betting promotion.

Consumer protection group Codacons threatened legal action, accusing Pirlo of “advertising gambling in full violation of Article 9 of the Dignity Decree” through his social media and other activities. The agency said it would seek to block his appointment if the FIGC proceeded.

Beyond the legal issues, the political dimension proved decisive. Fonbet’s Russian origins are highly sensitive given Italy’s support for Ukraine in the ongoing war. Local media noted that even terminating the commercial deal would not erase the reputational damage. Pirlo, currently under contract with Dubai club United FC, reiterated that his relationship with Fonbet was purely commercial and carried no political significance.