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President of the Italian Football Federation: I only bear sports responsibility, the match between Italy and Israel must be played

10:55am, 7 October 2025【Football】

October 7th News Italian Football Association Chairman Gravina said that Italy's World Cup qualifiers against Israel must be held and Italy will try its best to achieve good results.

In the European qualifiers of the World Cup on October 15, Italy will face Israel at home. Due to the conflict between Pakistan and Israel, many people have previously called on FIFA and UEFA to suspend Israel, and some people have asked Italy not to participate in this match against Israel.

In response to this, Chairman Gravina responded: "My attitude is clear at this point. As a person and a citizen of the world, I am deeply indignant of everything I see. But I cannot bear political responsibility, I have to bear sports responsibility."

Gravina continued: "I think sports have a great function, that is, to unite, to share everything as much as possible. We think this game against Israel must be played, we will participate in the game, and we will do everything we can to achieve the best results possible."

Finally, Gravina also said: "I called (the head coach of the Italian national team) Gattuso and said to him, 'Reno, I didn't sleep well last night and had a nightmare. You say something positive and let me immediately restore the good mood of the day.' He comforted me, and then I had a good day."