Gravina Rejects Doomsday Narrative
Former FIGC president Gabriele Gravina has hit back at the widespread despair surrounding Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup, insisting that the state of the national game is far from catastrophic. Speaking at the launch of Ivan Zazzaroni's book in Rome, Gravina acknowledged the pain of a third consecutive World Cup absence but argued that judging Italian football solely on that outcome is simplistic and unfair.
"I don't agree that Italian football has reached its lowest point," he said. "Evaluating our football based on a single result is a mistake, we need to stop being hypocritical about this."
The quotes, carried by Gianluca Di Marzio, come amid a mood of national gloom after Italy's play-off defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March consigned them to miss a third straight World Cup, following non-qualification for Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Youth Success and Mancini's Legacy
Gravina pointed to the achievements of Italy's youth teams and the silverware secured under former coach Roberto Mancini as evidence that the game is still healthy. "We forget too easily that we won the European Championship in 2021 and that our youth sides have been competitive at every level," he said. "The women's team is growing, and Serie A clubs are investing in infrastructure. There is much work to do, but rock bottom? No."
Gravina, who stepped down earlier this year, also called for a more measured assessment, criticising those who "only see the glass as completely empty" and ignoring structural improvements made during his tenure.
Key Takeaways
- Gravina rejects claims that Italian football has hit its lowest point despite three straight World Cup absences.
- He highlights the 2021 European Championship victory and youth team performances as counterpoints.
- The former FIGC chief accuses critics of hypocrisy and of placing too much weight on a single negative result.
- He points to investments in women's football and club infrastructure as signs of long-term health.
- Gravina's remarks come as the FIGC begins a new cycle under president Luciano Buonfiglio.
Quick Facts
Last World Cup appearance: 2014 (Brazil)
Consecutive World Cups missed: 2018, 2022, 2026
Major honour in that span: UEFA Euro 2020 (won in 2021)
Youth achievements: U-19 European champions 2023, U-20 World Cup runners-up 2023
Serie A stadium investment: Over €1 billion planned for new and renovated venues