Archive · 28 Jul 2026
Maldini and Leonardo Resign from Italian Football Federation
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo, who were recently appointed to important roles in the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), have decided to step down just 16 days after their appointments.
Maldini was the technical director, and Leonardo was his adviser.
They left their positions shortly after Andrea Pirlo, a former Italy international, announced he was no longer a candidate to coach the national team due to opposition over his commercial ties to a Russian betting company.
This move comes as part of a major overhaul of the national team management.
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo resigned from their roles with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Maldini was appointed technical director on July 11 and stepped down on July 27.
Leonardo, a former Brazil international, was Maldini's adviser.
The resignations follow Andrea Pirlo's decision to withdraw from consideration as national team coach.
Pirlo faced opposition due to his commercial ties to a Russian betting company.
- Who
- Paolo Maldini and Leonardo
- What
- Resigned from their roles with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC)
- When
- July 27
- Where
- Italy
- Why
- After a major overhaul of the national team management and opposition to Andrea Pirlo's appointment
Supporters of Maldini and Leonardo
Critics of Maldini and Leonardo
Effectiveness of Leadership
Supporters of Maldini and Leonardo
Maldini and Leonardo brought valuable experience and vision to the FIGC.
Critics of Maldini and Leonardo
Their leadership did not yield immediate results and was seen as ineffective.
- Paolo Maldini
- Former Italian footballer and technical director of the FIGC
- Leonardo
- Former Brazil international and adviser to Maldini
- FIGC
- Italian Football Federation
- Appointment Date
- July 11
- Resignation Date
- July 27
- Andrea Pirlo
- Former Italy international and prospective coach