Gravina confirms likely venue for Italy vs. Northern Ireland but moving Serie A fixtures unfeasible

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina says that rescheduling Serie A fixtures to give Italy more time to prepare for the World Cup play-off is unfeasible and confirms that the semi-final against Northern Ireland is expected to be played in Bergamo.

Gravina spoke at a press conference on Monday after a Federal meeting in Rome.

Gennaro Gattuso had expressed hope that Serie A fixtures scheduled for the weekend before the World Cup play-off semifinal could be moved, but unfortunately, Gravina delivered disappointing news to the Italy coach.

“We are not looking for alternatives or shortcuts. I don’t consider postponing or moving the fixtures to be feasible,” said the FIGC President via TMW.

“The possibility of a stage is more plausible. We are moving to work on those who are eligible, but there aren’t many. Gattuso can follow them in the coming weeks and months. Hopefully, we can make a stage in mid-February, compatible with the schedule of clubs in European competitions.”

The debate over the quality of Italian football has dragged over for years, with fans asking to see more Italian players in Serie A clubs.

“It’s one for the Lega, but there’s an international principle. Football is part of the market economy, and companies can’t be limited in their financial activities,” said Gravina.

“Suggesting that there should be a rule to play more Italians is out of question, it’s not feasible. We can incentivise through the use of some resources and work on investments. Right now, football considers investments in youth sectors just a cost.”

Gattuso raised eyebrows during the break, suggesting that the World Cup qualification path is more challenging for European teams compared to other continents, and Gravina seemed to agree.

“There’s a democracy principle and countries that have more support because voting takes place at the international level,” said Gravina.

“If there’s a ranking, perhaps 9th-placed Italy should have a little advantage compared to other realities. These percentages are all political matters that have to be presented a minute after the World Cup is defined. Italy not going to the World Cup affects the fans and the image of Italian football, but also those organising these tournaments. Italy is a brand that attracts, but the results must be earned through the work on the pitch, not just because you are called Italy.”

Italy will host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26, 2026. The potential Final will be away against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Azzurri were eliminated in the 2022 World Cup play-off semifinal by North Macedonia, who then lost to Portugal in the Final.

“Italy have not qualified for the World Cup because we haven’t won. It’s a different football reality from 25 years ago,” Gravina continued.

“At that time, it was unthinkable for Malta to win in Finland or a late 2-2 draw against Poland. What matters is to win against Northern Ireland, a decisive game. We should not make the same mistake we did against North Macedonia.”

Lastly, Gravina confirmed that Italy-North Macedonia will likely be played at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, home to Serie A side Atalanta.

“The idea is to play in Bergamo, we already received a fantastic welcome, and the stadium is perfect to organise this game.”