Italy’s World Cup failure sparks major crisis
Italy’s collapse in the race to the 2026 World Cup has triggered a full-blown crisis in Italian football. Following the playoff elimination against Bosnia and Herzegovina, both Gianluigi Buffon and federation president Gabriele Gravina stepped down.
Italy’s collapse in the race to the 2026 World Cup has triggered a full-blown crisis in Italian football. Following the playoff elimination against Bosnia and Herzegovina, both Gianluigi Buffon and federation president Gabriele Gravina stepped down.
Buffon described his resignation as “an act of responsibility”, revealing that the decision came immediately after the match. He admitted the failure to achieve the main objective of returning Italy to the World Cup.
Leadership shake-up after historic setback
Gravina’s resignation comes amid heavy criticism after Italy failed to qualify for a World Cup for the third straight time. The penalty shootout loss to Bosnia intensified scrutiny over the federation’s management.
Buffon acknowledged that, despite the efforts alongside head coach Gennaro Gattuso, the outcome demanded change and a fresh start for the national team.
Uncertainty surrounds Italy’s future
With key figures stepping down, uncertainty now dominates the outlook of the Italian national team. Questions remain over Gattuso’s future as structural changes unfold.
Italy now faces a crucial rebuilding phase after another major failure that has shaken the foundation of its football system.
