Andrea Pirlo has confirmed he is no longer in contention for the Italy national team coaching position, primarily due to his sponsorship deal with Fonbet, a Russian betting firm. This development has sparked backlash from several Italian politicians who argue that Pirlo's role as an ambassador for Fonbet conflicts with Italy’s stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

In an Instagram post on Monday, Pirlo stated, "I heard last night that I’m no longer the candidate for the Italy national team job." He emphasized that his agreement with Fonbet was strictly for commercial and sports purposes, asserting, "Attributing a political significance to that collaboration means attributing beliefs to me that I have never expressed and don’t belong to me."

Pirlo expressed his dismay over the controversy, saying, "I have watched with great bitterness the debate that has developed around my name and the possibility of taking on the role of head coach of the Italian national team." He reiterated his commitment to adhering to the laws of the countries where he has worked.

Despite having support from Paolo Maldini, the newly-appointed technical director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), the backlash has been significant. Pina Picierno, a vice-president of the European Parliament, criticized the potential appointment, saying, "The choice of Andrea Pirlo goes in the exact opposite direction" of the needed revolution in Italian football.

Ignazio La Russa, head of the Senate, expressed skepticism about Pirlo's coaching abilities, while Carlo Calenda, leader of the Azione party, stated, "Anyone who is or has been promoting Russia after 2022 should not hold national office."

After failing to secure Pep Guardiola or Carlo Ancelotti as their first choices, the FIGC had turned to Pirlo, who was ready to leave his position at Dubai United. Now, former coaches Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte have re-emerged as candidates for the role.