Pirlo withdraws from Italy coach race over Fonbet ambassador role
People moves · SectorWire deskSource published
Summary
Andrea Pirlo withdrew from consideration to become Italy's head coach after politicians criticised his links to betting company Fonbet. Pirlo said the debate had attributed to him meanings and intentions that were not his, and that the Fonbet deal was commercial and sporting in nature. Paolo Maldini, the Italian Football Federation's technical director, and his adviser Leonardo resigned after backing Pirlo.
Why it matters
The case shows that betting-industry ambassador roles can disqualify public figures from national appointments, a risk for operators relying on high-profile endorsements.
Cite as: SectorWire, “Pirlo withdraws from Italy coach race over Fonbet ambassador role”, 28 July 2026, https://sectorwire.news/item/pirlo-withdraws-from-italy-coach-race-over-fonbet-ambassador-role/