Andrea Pirlo out of running for Italy coach job due to Russian betting links
Andrea Pirlo confirmed he is no longer a candidate to become Italy's next head coach.
Pirlo's candidacy ended due to his role as global brand ambassador for Fonbet, a Russian betting company, conflicting with Italy's gambling advertising rules and political sensitivity.
FIGC president Giovanni Malagò reportedly blocked the appointment, with concerns about Pirlo's coaching record at Juventus, Sampdoria, Fatih Karagumruk, and Dubai United.
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo, who pushed for Pirlo, are now considering their own positions after their candidate was blocked.
Pirlo released a statement defending his Fonbet role as a commercial and sporting collaboration in the UAE, denying any political meaning.
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