Malagò eligible to stand for the presidency of the FIGC; ANAC gives the go-ahead
On Monday, we will find out who will lead the Italian Football Federation in an attempt to revive the sport following Gravina’s resignation
by Lorenzo Pace
Key points
The final uncertainty has been resolved just a few days before the vote. The National Anti-Corruption Authority has ruled out any incompatibility between Giovanni Malagò’s candidacy for the presidency of the FIGC and the rules on so-called ‘pantouflage’, thereby resolving the main source of uncertainty that had accompanied the former CONI president’s campaign in the run-up to the elective assembly on 22 June.
The Federal Presidency
In the detailed opinion signed by the President of ANAC, Giuseppe Busia, the Authority concludes that the post of President of the Italian Football Federation does not fall within the categories covered by the prohibition laid down in the legislation. In particular, ANAC notes that the presidency of the federation does not constitute an employment, consultancy or collaborative relationship with a private entity subject to the powers previously exercised by the holder of a public office.
Abodi’s request for verification
The ruling comes following a request for clarification made by the Minister for Sport, Andrea Abodi, in response to a parliamentary question tabled by the Chair of the Senate’s Culture and Sport Committee, Roberto Marti. The question concerned the possible application of anti-corruption regulations to Malagò’s candidacy, in light of the supervisory, regulatory and oversight powers that CONI exercises over the national sports federations.
The CONI’s opinion
In recent weeks, the issue had sparked a legal and institutional debate set to run in the run-up to the federal elections. However, when the matter was referred to it, the Sports Guarantee Board at CONI ruled that it lacked jurisdiction, noting that a preliminary assessment of eligibility would fall outside its remit and referring any further investigation to the National Anti-Corruption Authority.
Malagò: ‘I was sure of it’
Following ANAC’s opinion, the way forward now appears to have been set out. “I was certain of it,” commented Malagò, emphasising that he had received consistent assessments in recent months from numerous experts and authorities on the matter. Minister Abodi also expressed his satisfaction, stating that the ruling helps to ensure the full legitimacy of the electoral process.
