The latest attempt to reshape the Italy national team has been thrown into doubt after the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) said it would examine whether Diana Bianchedi’s proposed appointment as delegation chief is compatible with her existing position within the organisation.
Bianchedi’s nomination was announced by FIGC President Giovanni Malago in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport on the same morning that CONI confirmed it would assess the matter. The committee said it would evaluate the ‘opportunities, grounds and incompatibility’ surrounding the appointment.
The concern centres on Bianchedi’s current role as vice-president to Luciano Buonfiglio at CONI. Holding that position while also leading the delegation for the Italy national team could create a conflict of interest and raise questions over whether she would be able to carry out both responsibilities.
Bianchedi was expected to take over a position previously occupied by Gianluigi Buffon, who resigned as Italy’s delegation chief in March. Her proposed appointment is now at risk of being blocked before she begins the role.
The issue is the latest setback for Malago’s plans to reorganise the Italy national team after he became FIGC President. Renewing the structure around the national side was one of his stated priorities, but the process has already encountered several difficulties.
Malago appointed Paolo Maldini as technical director of Club Italia and brought in Leonardo as his special adviser. Both men left within three weeks, with each resignation linked to the difficulties involved in identifying a coach.
The uncertainty surrounding Bianchedi’s position has therefore added to a turbulent start for the new leadership team. While her experience in sport made her a high-profile candidate for the delegation role, CONI’s review will determine whether the appointment can proceed.
Bianchedi previously competed in fencing and won Olympic medals representing Italy. After ending her sporting career, she moved into administration and became a prominent sports director.
CONI is the organisation responsible for overseeing sport in Italy. Its current vice-president, Buonfiglio, is the person to whom Bianchedi reports in her existing role.
Malago himself served as CONI President from 2013 to 2025 before becoming President of the Italian Football Federation. His move to the FIGC has placed him at the centre of the effort to rebuild the Italy national team, but the latest CONI intervention means another key appointment remains unresolved.