

Key Takeaways:
- Giancarlo Abete and Giovanni Malagò have been officially confirmed as FIGC Presidential candidates for the 22 June election in Rome
- Renato Miele’s attempted candidacy was denied due to insufficient delegate support
- Candidates’ manifestos detail distinct visions, with Malagò focusing on youth incentives and infrastructure, and Abete aiming for FIGC decision-making reforms and club reductions
Candidates and Election Details
Giancarlo Abete and Giovanni Malagò have formally entered the race for the FIGC presidency, submitting their applications ahead of the required deadline, set 40 days prior to the vote. The pivotal election is due to be held on 22 June at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Abete’s nomination comes with the backing of the Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (LND), representing Italy’s amateur leagues, while Malagò’s bid is supported by the Lega Serie A.
🟡🔴 Presidenza FIGC, presentate ufficialmente le candidature di Abete e Malagò
➡️ https://t.co/3wZkCHKkBZ#ASRoma pic.twitter.com/htV2jqr5yt
— laroma24.it (@LAROMA24) May 13, 2026
Third Candidacy Attempt and Election Campaign Launch
An unusual turn in this election cycle saw former footballer Renato Miele attempt to enter the presidential contest. However, his candidacy was rejected as he failed to secure the necessary delegate endorsement. With only Abete and Malagò officially in the running, the campaign phase has now formally begun, and both contenders’ manifestos have been released to the public.
Breakdown of Manifestos
Giovanni Malagò is advocating for a set of incentives designed to increase playing time for young Italian footballers in Serie A, seeking to support domestic talent development. Additionally, his campaign includes a comprehensive national initiative aimed at promoting the construction of new stadiums and training facilities throughout Italy.
Giancarlo Abete, by contrast, intends to curtail Serie A’s authority to impede reforms, and stresses the importance of empowering the FIGC to make decisions that benefit the sport across all levels within the country. Abete’s blueprint also proposes a reduction in the number of participating clubs, alongside establishing a management group tasked with overseeing the Club Italia section associated with the national team.
Federation Councillor Election Candidates
Concurrent to the presidential race, the FIGC will hold elections for new federation councillors. High-profile figures vying for these roles include Inter President Beppe Marotta and Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini.
| Candidate | Backing Body | Key Proposals |
|---|---|---|
| Giancarlo Abete | Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (LND) | Strengthen FIGC decision-making, reduce number of clubs, introduce Club Italia management group |
| Giovanni Malagò | Lega Serie A | Incentivise youth player opportunities, launch national stadium and training infrastructure plan |
| Renato Miele | Not eligible | Attempted candidacy rejected due to lack of delegate support |




