Andrea Pirlo’s hopes of becoming Italy’s next national team coach have faded amid controversy over his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet.

The 2006 FIFA World Cup winner had become a leading candidate to manage the Azzurri after Pep Guardiola ruled himself out, but growing political and public pressure pushed the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to reconsider the appointment.

The main issue centres on Pirlo’s role as a global ambassador for Fonbet and his appearance at a promotional event in Moscow. With Italy maintaining dedicated support for Ukraine, the association drew criticism from politicians and football officials, who argued that appointing Pirlo could create unnecessary controversy for the national team.

Pirlo has strongly defended himself, insisting that his relationship with the company is purely commercial and has no political significance.

The fallout has added to instability in Italian football. Paolo Maldini, who supported Pirlo’s appointment, resigned as FIGC technical director after the decision, while adviser Leonardo also stepped down.

The federation must now restart its search for a coach as Italy seeks to rebuild after another disappointing international cycle and restore its place among football’s elite.