Malago appointed FIGC commissioner as CONI approves compromise

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | In a dramatic turn of events that reshapes the governance of Italian football, Giovanni Malago has been appointed FIGC commissioner as CONI approves compromise, ending weeks of uncertainty at the top of the federation. The decision, reached unanimously by CONI’s executive committee on Tuesday, places the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) under special administration and installs Malago as the man to lead it through a transitional period.

Malago, who was elected FIGC president on June 22 with 68.58 per cent of the vote, had seen his victory challenged by CONI on the grounds that he was not a registered member of the federation when he stood as a candidate. The dispute threatened to plunge Italian football into a protracted legal and political battle. However, following intense mediation between CONI president Luciano Buonfiglio and Malago, a compromise was reached that keeps Malago at the helm—albeit in a different capacity.

The executive committee’s vote, which took place at 13:00 local time, saw all 15 voting members of the Giunta back the proposal. The decision still requires ratification by CONI’s National Council at 14:00, but that is widely regarded as a formality. The move effectively avoids a damaging split within Italian sport’s governing bodies and ensures continuity at the FIGC during a crucial period.

Buonfiglio had initially intended to take on the commissioner role himself, but with the Giunta divided and Serie A clubs firmly behind Malago, he opted for a compromise that would prevent a potentially divisive vote. Under the agreement, Malago will run the federation in the interim and is expected to call fresh elections within approximately three months. Crucially, he will be eligible to stand again, this time as a registered member, paving the way for his return to the presidency on a permanent basis.

The appointment of Malago as FIGC commissioner as CONI approves compromise represents a significant victory for the 65-year-old sports administrator, who also serves as president of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games organising committee. His dual role raises questions about workload and potential conflicts of interest, but supporters argue that his experience and leadership are exactly what Italian football needs to navigate these turbulent times.

Malago’s election in June had been hailed as a new beginning for the FIGC, which has faced criticism over its handling of various issues, including the national team’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and ongoing financial troubles in Serie A. However, his eligibility was immediately challenged by CONI, which argued that the federation’s statutes required candidates to be registered members. The dispute escalated quickly, with Serie A clubs and other stakeholders lining up behind Malago, forcing CONI to seek a negotiated solution.

The compromise, which saw Malago appointed FIGC commissioner as CONI approves compromise, is seen as a face-saving measure for all parties. Buonfiglio avoids the embarrassment of a failed vote, while Malago retains control of the federation and can now focus on implementing his reform agenda. The fresh elections, expected within three months, will provide an opportunity for Malago to secure a full mandate as a registered member.

Reactions to the news have been mixed. Some observers praise the pragmatic approach that avoids a damaging power struggle, while others criticise the lack of clarity and the potential for further instability. Serie A clubs, who had publicly backed Malago, are likely relieved that their preferred candidate remains in charge. The players’ association and other stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the interim period unfolds.

Looking ahead, Malago’s immediate priorities will include stabilising the federation’s finances, addressing the concerns of clubs and players, and preparing for the upcoming international fixtures. The fresh elections will also require careful management to ensure they are conducted fairly and transparently. With Malago appointed FIGC commissioner as CONI approves compromise, the focus now shifts to how he will use this second chance to deliver meaningful change.

In conclusion, the appointment of Giovanni Malago as FIGC commissioner, approved by CONI’s executive committee, marks a pivotal moment for Italian football. The compromise avoids a potentially destructive conflict and gives Malago the opportunity to continue his work, albeit under a different title. The coming months will be critical as he seeks to re-establish his mandate through fresh elections. For now, the immediate crisis has been averted, and Italian football can breathe a sigh of relief—though the underlying issues that led to this situation remain unresolved.