Chaos in Italy: Giovanni Malagò lashes out at Minister Abodi; controversy erupts

The resignation of Diana Bianchedi, head of the Italian national team delegation, is sparking a lot of debate. The former fencer, who was appointed just a few months ago, decided to step down following remarks by Minister of Sports and Youth Andrea Abodi, who had criticized her stance—which differed from that of President Buonfiglio—regarding the appointment of an administrator for the Italian Weightlifting Federation.

Giovanni Malagò also weighed in on the matter, speaking bluntly on the sidelines of the Lega Pro assembly: “It’s a decision I can only agree with. Abodi’s remarks were unconventional, ungrammatical, and out of place. I believe it’s impossible to disagree with Bianchedi.”

“Diana was particularly upset that the Minister of Sports would comment on the conduct of the executive committee,” continued the FIGC president. The verdict is unanimous if you look closely; what’s happening is a fact. This isn’t about being friends with Mario or Carlo, Giovanni or Luciano: it’s clear that there’s this blatant interference, which in my opinion is absolutely wrong, in the name of the dynamics of sports autonomy.”

On Wednesday evening, Diana Bianchedi outlined the reasons for her resignation in a letter: “Following the statements made by the Minister of Sports and Youth, Andrea Abodi, and the controversy that ensued in the press this afternoon, I am tendering my resignation as Head of the National Team Delegation.”

“This decision stems from the deep respect I have for CONI, its Executive Committee, the FIGC, and sports institutions, as demonstrated by my career as an athlete and an executive. I have always acted with integrity and professionalism, respecting the rules and people, for the good of the sport—values that are now being unfairly called into question.”