Aleksander Ceferin, the outspoken president of UEFA, has delivered a scathing critique of Italy’s football infrastructure, labeling it as "terrible" and the worst among Europe’s top five leagues. In an interview with Italian media outlet SportMediaset, published on Tuesday, Ceferin didn’t mince words, expressing his frustration and urging for immediate action to address the dilapidated state of Italian stadiums.
The UEFA president’s remarks came in the context of the rejected bid for San Siro stadium to host the 2027 Champions League final and ongoing discussions regarding the construction of a new stadium in Milan. Ceferin’s assessment painted a grim picture of Italian football’s foundation, contrasting the nation’s glorious history and achievements with the stark reality of its outdated facilities.
"The Italian football infrastructure is a disgrace. Italy is one of the biggest countries in terms of football, with World Cups, European Championships, and Champions Leagues won. But at the same time, compared to the other big football countries, you have by far the worst infrastructure," Ceferin stated, highlighting the glaring disparity between Italy’s on-field success and its off-field shortcomings.
Ceferin’s criticism extended beyond mere observations; he voiced his exasperation with the prolonged discussions surrounding stadium development, which have yet to translate into tangible progress. "To be honest, I’m a bit fed up with these discussions about stadiums, because they always remain discussions. I hope Italy will do something about the stadiums, the clubs need help from the government and institutions. Private individuals must invest. It’s time to do something, because the stadiums are terrible," he emphasized, calling for a concerted effort from all stakeholders to address the issue.
The Slovenian football administrator’s comments underscore the urgent need for investment and modernization in Italian football infrastructure. The current state of many stadiums not only detracts from the fan experience but also hinders the potential for Italian clubs to compete at the highest level in European competitions. Modern, state-of-the-art facilities are essential for attracting top players, generating revenue, and creating a vibrant atmosphere for supporters.
Ceferin’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for Italian football authorities, club owners, and government officials to prioritize stadium development and modernization. The lack of progress in this area has been a long-standing issue, and Ceferin’s blunt assessment should spur meaningful action to rectify the situation.
While Ceferin acknowledged the challenges, he also expressed optimism that the Italian government is now aware of the need to address the infrastructure deficiencies. He also expressed confidence in Gabriele Gravina, the vice-president of UEFA, to help bridge the gap and drive positive change.
The upcoming events, such as the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony at San Siro and the joint hosting of the 2032 European Championship with Turkey, provide further impetus for Italy to improve its football infrastructure. These high-profile events will shine a global spotlight on the country, and it is crucial that Italy presents itself as a modern and forward-thinking football nation.
Ceferin’s tenure as UEFA president is drawing to a close, as he has announced that he will not seek another term in 2027. However, his legacy will undoubtedly include his outspoken advocacy for improvements in football infrastructure across Europe, and his recent comments on Italy serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done.
The renovation or construction of new stadiums is a complex undertaking that requires significant investment, careful planning, and collaboration between various stakeholders. However, the benefits of modern facilities are undeniable, including enhanced fan experiences, increased revenue streams, and improved competitiveness for Italian clubs in European competitions.
In addition to financial investment, it is also essential to streamline the bureaucratic processes involved in stadium development. Lengthy permitting procedures and regulatory hurdles can delay projects and discourage investment. By simplifying these processes, the Italian government can create a more favorable environment for stadium development and encourage private sector investment.
Furthermore, it is important to involve local communities in the planning and development of new stadiums. Engaging with residents and addressing their concerns can help ensure that projects are well-received and contribute positively to the surrounding areas.
The state of Italian football infrastructure has been a concern for many years, and Ceferin’s remarks underscore the urgent need for action. By addressing this issue, Italy can enhance its reputation as a leading football nation, improve the fan experience, and ensure the long-term success of its clubs. The time for talk is over; it is time for concrete action to transform Italian football infrastructure and bring it in line with the standards of other top European leagues. The modernization of stadiums is not just about improving facilities; it is about investing in the future of Italian football and ensuring that it remains a competitive force on the European stage. This requires a collective effort from the government, football federations, clubs, and private investors to overcome the challenges and realize the full potential of Italian football.
