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ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: (L-R) President of CONI Luciano Buonfiglio, President of FIGC Gabriele Gravina and UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin look on prior the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Gabriele Gravina has admitted regret over his time in charge of the FIGC, acknowledging he may have stayed on too long before stepping down after acknowledging “what had been done could not be improved further.”
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Speaking to Le Iene, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, Gravina said he felt “bitter” about failing to deliver the results fans deserved, particularly in light of Italy’s ongoing struggles on the international stage.
“I’m disappointed for not giving our fans what they deserved,” he said. “Above all, I regret not stepping aside earlier, when I realised that what had been done could not be improved further.”
Gravina pushes back against Italy critics
Gravina also pushed back against criticism of his leadership, highlighting key achievements during his tenure.
“What I cannot accept is being called unworthy,” he added. “Important work was done, especially in terms of financial stability. We secured co-hosting rights for Euro 2032, one of the biggest sporting events in the world. People forget that after 53 years we won the European Championship, and the Under-17 side also lifted their first European title.”
However, Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup remains a major shadow. Gravina pointed to structural issues within Italian football, particularly the limited opportunities for domestic players.
“We produce talent, but it is not used,” he explained. “Around 70% of players are foreign, leaving only 30% eligible for the national team. Clubs operate as businesses, so you cannot force them to make different choices. The only solution is to change the culture and introduce incentives.”
He also clarified previous controversial remarks about other sports, insisting they were misunderstood.
“My comments were about regulations, not a lack of respect,” Gravina said. “I admire athletes from all disciplines and their sacrifices. I never intended to offend anyone.”
