Recent statements by outgoing FIGC President Gabriele Gravina on the topic of professionalism in Italian sport have sparked a debate that deserves a broader and more informed perspective.
“It is undeniable that football currently represents the most structured and economically developed sports system in our country. Its organizational model and its ability to generate value are undoubtedly a benchmark,” stated Pino Carbone, President of Sviluppo Sud Catania.
“But professionalism in sport is not measured solely by economic numbers. It is also measured by the quality of the organizations, the dedication of the athletes, the credibility of the competitions, and the results that bring Italy’s name to the world.”
President Carbone then draws attention to the value of other disciplines: “Sports like volleyball, basketball, rugby, and many others demonstrate every day that there is a widespread culture of professionalism, based on hard work, passion, and expertise.”
A reflection that looks at the system as a whole: “Rather than establishing rankings among sports, I believe the time has come to open a serious discussion on how to strengthen the entire Italian sports system. Football can be an important driving force in this process, providing experience and development capabilities.”
Finally, the concluding message: “The real challenge is not to establish who is more professional, but to jointly build an increasingly stronger, more sustainable Italian sport capable of growing in all its disciplines. When all sport grows, the country grows.”
