Diana Bianchedi announced her resignation from the position of head of the Italian national team delegation, just two months after her appointment, amid controversy sparked by the decision to entrust her with the role during the UEFA Nations League competitions.
The resignation of the former Olympic champion comes amidst a state of controversy within the Italian Football Federation, due to regulations governing relations between various sports institutions in Italy.
Giovanni Malagò, president of the Italian Federation, had appointed Bianchedi as head of the national team delegation on August 9, succeeding Gianluigi Buffon, despite her simultaneously holding the position of Vice President of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI).
Combining the two roles was considered incompatible, given the potential for conflict of interest, especially in light of disagreements between Bianchedi and Luciano Bonfiglio, president of the Italian National Olympic Committee, regarding the handling of the special commissioner for the Weightlifting Federation.
Bianchedi said in a statement announcing her resignation: "Following the statements made by Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, and the controversy raised by the media this afternoon, I have decided to submit my resignation from the position of head of the national team delegation."
She added, "I took this decision out of respect for the Italian National Olympic Committee, its board, the Italian Football Federation, and sports institutions, which is something proven by my career as an athlete and official."
She clarified, "I have always acted with fairness and professionalism, respecting rules and people, and for the benefit of sport—values that are being unfairly questioned today."
She continued, "I also wish to step back for the sake of the Azzurri, protesting against dragging the national team into unnecessary controversy."
Bianchedi concluded her remarks, "We must remember that sport is primarily about this. Let us encourage these players; they deserve it."
Abodi's statements, referenced by Bianchedi, came following her disagreement, alongside Marco De Paola, Vice President of the Italian National Olympic Committee, with Bonfiglio over the fate of the Weightlifting Federation.
Bianchedi has a prominent sporting history in fencing, specifically foil, having won two Olympic gold medals in 1992 and 2000.
She also held several positions within the Italian National Olympic Committee, most notably serving as Vice President of the committee in 2025.
Bianchedi also holds a degree in Medicine and Surgery, along with experience in sports management, making her one of the leading figures in Italian sports.
