Andrea Pirlo ruled out of Italy coaching race after Russian betting sponsorship controversy
New Delhi: Andrea Pirlo’s hopes of taking charge of the Italy national football team have come to an end after his association with a Russian betting company sparked political criticism. The former World Cup winner confirmed on Monday that he is no longer being considered for the role, bringing weeks of speculation over his future to a close.
Pirlo had been among the leading names to replace Gennaro Gattuso as Italy’s head coach. However, questions surrounding his commercial partnership with Russian bookmaker Fonbet became a major talking point as the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) continued its search for a new manager.
The former midfielder revealed through Instagram that he was informed the previous night that he was no longer in the running for the job. His sponsorship agreement and a promotional appearance in Moscow earlier this year alongside former Italy teammate Marco Materazzi drew criticism from several Italian politicians, who argued that such an association was not appropriate for someone leading the national team.
🚨🇮🇹 Official: Andrea Pirlo appointment as new Italian national team head coach has been called off.
Federation president Malagò decides not to proceed with signatures due to Pirlo’s collab with a Russian betting brand. ❌ pic.twitter.com/0kym57dEz7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 27, 2026
Pirlo defends sponsorship agreement
While responding to the criticism, Pirlo made it clear that the deal was purely professional and had nothing to do with politics. “The professional collaboration that is the subject of recent controversy came about as part of my working experience in the United Arab Emirates and is exclusively of a commercial and sporting nature,” he said.
He also dismissed suggestions that the partnership reflected any political views. “Attributing a political significance to that collaboration means attributing beliefs to me that I have never expressed and don’t belong to me.”
Pirlo said he was disappointed that a sporting decision had become overshadowed by a wider political debate. While the FIGC has not officially commented on the issue, reports suggest the controversy played a significant role in ending his chances of becoming Italy’s next coach.
Italy continue search for new manager
Pirlo is currently managing Dubai United after previous coaching spells with Juventus and Sampdoria. Although he was considered a strong candidate, he was never the only option for the position.
Italy’s search for a new head coach comes at a crucial time after the national team failed to qualify for a third straight FIFA World Cup. Gennaro Gattuso left the role by mutual consent in April following Italy’s defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a World Cup qualifying play-off.
Before Pirlo emerged as a contender, Italy reportedly approached Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, but both declined the opportunity. With Pirlo now out of the race, the focus shifts to other experienced names including former Italy managers Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte as the FIGC looks to rebuild the national team during one of the most challenging periods in its history.