The upcoming World Cup playoff final against Bosnia in Zenica carries immense weight, extending far beyond the football pitch. Prominent journalist Giancarlo Padovan has issued a stark warning: a third consecutive failure by Italy to qualify for the World Cup could precipitate a comprehensive restructuring of the Italian Football Federation’s (FIGC) senior management.
Speaking on Radio Radio, as reported by CalcioMercato, Padovan’s assessment was unequivocal.
“I believe that if Italy does not qualify for the World Cup, the federation would be placed under external administration for a year, leading to the complete removal of the current leadership,” he stated.
FIGC President Gravina Under Pressure if Italy Misses World Cup
FIGC President Gabriele Gravina stands as the most prominent figure whose position is at risk. Despite overseeing two previous World Cup absences, he was recently re-elected unopposed and has, until now, withstood significant calls for his resignation.
However, according to Padovan, a third consecutive failure to reach the global tournament would almost certainly render his position untenable. Other senior officials within the federation would also face similar jeopardy.
Italy faces Bosnia knowing that only a victory will secure their qualification for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The Italian national team successfully navigated their semi-final against Northern Ireland and are now just one match away from ending a prolonged and painful absence from football’s most prestigious event.
Conversely, a defeat would, as described by Padovan, initiate a fundamental overhaul of the governing structures of Italian football.
