Italy's Failure to Qualify for 2026 World Cup: Gattuso, Gravina and Buffon Resign

The crisis in Italian Football has reached its nadir. Following Gli Azzurri's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, a wave of resignations has swept from top leadership to the coaching staff. Gennaro Gattuso is the latest figure to step down from the Italy National Team Coach position, following the departures of FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and head of delegation Gianluigi Buffon.

This decision marks a dark chapter for Italy, who once again failed to appear on the biggest stage of World Football, the FIFA 2026 World Cup. 

Italy had to swallow a bitter pill after being eliminated by Bosnia-Herzegovina via a penalty shootout drama in the UEFA zone play-off final.

Gattuso, who had only been in the role since June 2025, confirmed his resignation after the federation and he reached a mutual agreement.

"With a heavy heart, because we failed to achieve the objectives we set, I consider my tenure as National Team Coach concluded. The Azzurri jersey is the most valuable asset in football. Therefore, it is right to facilitate the future technical evaluation from the outset," said Gattuso.

Gattuso's move follows the decisions of Gravina and Buffon, who previously left their positions for similar reasons – failing to meet the primary target of bringing Italy back to the World Cup.

In his statement, Gattuso still expressed pride in the opportunity to lead Gli Azzurri and gave appreciation to the players and supporters.

"My biggest thanks go to the fans, to all Italians who never failed to show their love and support for the national team during these months. Always with the Azzurri in my heart," Gattuso stated.

Gravina paid tribute to Gattuso's contributions during his brief time leading the national team.

"Besides being an extraordinary person, he made a valuable contribution as coach, successfully reigniting enthusiasm for the national team in just a few months. He instilled great pride in the players and the entire nation regarding the national team's blue jersey," said Gravina.

This failure marks the third consecutive one for Italy, following previous absences in the 2018 and 2022 editions. This record contrasts sharply with their status as one of the traditional giants of World Football. 

Now, with the positions of coach, federation president, and head of delegation all vacant, Italy faces a massive reconstruction phase to restore their glory at the international level.