Official: Bianchedi resigns as Italy delegation chief after controversy

LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND - JUNE 24: Diana Bianchedi, Manager of the National Olympic Committee looks on during IOC Announcement at SwissTech Convention Center on June 24, 2019 in Lausanne, Switzerland. (Photo by Robert Hradil/Getty Images)

Diana Bianchedi has resigned as FIGC delegation chief for the Italy national team, in the middle of a Nations League campaign, just two months after her controversial appointment.

This is yet another chapter in the chaotic situation swirling around the Federation, once again based on the byzantine rules involving various sectors of Italian sport.

With FIGC President Giovanni Malagò increasingly likely to see his June landslide election declared null and void, delegation chief Bianchedi has decided to simply step away from the role he gave her on August 9.

Her presence was considered ‘incompatible’ to work with the FIGC because she already held the position of vice president of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee).

This was seen as a potential conflict of interests, and there was further tension around her disagreement with CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio on how to deal with a special commissioner for the weightlifting federation.

Bianchedi resigns from Italy role

“Following the comments made by Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi, and the controversy that was sparked in the media this afternoon, I tend my resignation as delegation chief for the Nazionale,” read a statement from Olympic fencing champion Bianchedi.

“The decision was made out of the great respect that I have for the CONI, it’s committee, the FIGC and the sporting institutions, as proved by my career as an athlete and director.

“I always acted fairly and professionally, respecting the rules and people, for the good of sport: values that today are unfairly put in question. I also wish to take a step back for the Azzurri, to protest the team from pointless controversy.

“The squad is united, motivated, with great professionals, starting from the coach, going through all the players and staff. I thank them for how they welcomed me and the emotions they gave me, albeit in only a few days.

“Let us remember that sport is, primarily, about this. Let us cheer on these lads, they deserve it.”

The comments from Abodi specifically were about both Bianchedi and fellow CONI vice president Marco Di Paola disagreeing with CONI President Buonfiglio on what to do with the weightlifting federation.

“The vice presidents have the right and duty to express their opinion, but if it is always contrary, they ought to make a choice,” said the Minister for Sport.

“That role was given to them as part of a relationship of trust. It’s sobering that two such iconic figures, entrusted with a leading role on trust, are unable to demonstrate their faith consistently.

“These are choices they will make internally, but as a general rule, relationships like this don’t last long.”