FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has appointed Diana Bianchedi as Italy's new delegation chief, a decision that has sparked controversy. Bianchedi, a two-time Olympic gold medalist fencer and vice-President of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI), was not consulted before being appointed, nor was head coach Roberto Mancini or technical director Claudio Ranieri. This lack of consultation has raised questions about Malagò's decision-making process.
Bianchedi's appointment has been complicated by her current role with CONI, with the Italian Olympic Committee suggesting that taking on both roles would be 'incompatible'. Bianchedi has not yet signed any contracts with the FIGC, and it remains to be seen whether she will actually take over as delegation chief. Gianluigi Buffon previously held the role of delegation chief until earlier this year.
The controversy surrounding Malagò's appointment has sparked debate about the FIGC's leadership and decision-making processes. Bianchedi and Malagò are both currently on holiday, and it is unclear what the next steps will be in this situation.