Giovanni Malagò wins FIGC presidency, says he is Roma fan

Giovanni Malagò was elected the new president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) with 68.58% of the vote, defeating challenger Giancarlo Abete. The election, held after Gabriele Gravina resigned following Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, marked Malagò’s transition from his 13‑year tenure as CONI president to the FIGC helm.

The federal assembly convened to choose a successor after Gravina’s departure, reflecting the federation’s need for new leadership. Members voted in a single ballot that produced a clear majority for Malagò.

Before assuming the FIGC role, Malagò served as president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) for 13 years. His experience in sports administration was highlighted as a key factor in his candidacy.

At the post‑election press conference, Malagò confirmed his lifelong support for AS Roma. He said, “There’s nothing worse than someone who denies their own history, especially if it’s family. For 13 years as CONI president, I’ve always been an institutional figure. It’s impossible to comment on this.”

He added that professionalism should not require renouncing personal affiliations, noting, “Shouldn’t we celebrate in a certain way at the stadium? But that’s very provincial. I don’t watch Obama during Chicago Bulls victories… they’re heads of state. Look at the royal family, with Prince William celebrating for Aston Villa. The important thing is how you behave, but you should never renounce that.” Malagò emphasized that conduct, not allegiance, defines a football official’s credibility.

His appointment aims to stabilise the federation after Italy’s repeated World Cup qualification setbacks. The FIGC expects Malagò to steer Italian football toward renewed competitive success.