AssetID: 55880623
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Pirlo Drops Out Of Italy Coaching Race After Russia Links Backlash
Caption: Pirlo Drops Out Of Italy Coaching Race After Russia Links Backlash. Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from contention to become Italy's next head coach following criticism over his links to Russian betting company Fonbet. Italian politicians questioned Pirlo's suitability after highlighting his role as a global ambassador for the company since October 2024. Pirlo said his work with Fonbet was purely commercial and sporting, rejecting suggestions it reflected his political views. The former Italy midfielder said he learned he was no longer a candidate and expressed disappointment at the controversy surrounding his name. Critics argued that anyone promoting Russian businesses after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine should not hold a senior national role. Pirlo’s appointment had not been officially confirmed by the Italian Football Federation but was widely expected before the backlash. The dispute has also increased pressure on Italian Football Federation technical director Paolo Maldini, who reportedly led the search for a new coach. Earlier this month, the Italian Football Federation also approached Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti. Italy is continuing its search for a new coach after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down earlier this year following the country's failure to qualify for the World Cup. Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini are now among the leading candidates for the role. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Sports,Andrea Pirlo,Italy,Italian Football Federation,Fonbet,Pep Guardiola,Carlo Ancelotti,Antonio Conte,Roberto Mancini,Gennaro Gattuso,football
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