Pirlo Drops Out of Italy Coach Race Over Russia Ties
Andrea Pirlo is no longer a candidate for the Italy football coaching job. His withdrawal follows criticism over his links to a Russian betting company.
Pirlo said on Instagram he learned last night he was no longer a candidate. He had not yet been formally confirmed as coach.
Italy's football federation FIGC was expected to announce its new coach on July 28. Pirlo had served as global ambassador for Fonbet, a Russian betting company.
That role brought criticism from FIGC leaders and Italian lawmakers. His Fonbet role came from an appearance in Moscow, Russia.
He appeared at Luzhniki Stadium with former player Marco Materazzi. The ambassador deal was signed in October.
FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini still supported Pirlo's hiring despite the criticism. Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for a third straight time. That failure led to the search for a new coach.
Key Terms 3
- FIGC Italy's national football federation, which runs the national team.
- Fonbet A Russian betting company that hired Pirlo as its ambassador.
- Luzhniki Stadium A large stadium in Moscow, Russia.