Italy is preparing to debate a major reform of its football structure, with a new proposal calling for part of the country’s betting revenue to be redirected into the sport’s long-term development.
The Italian Senate has received Bill No. 1902, titled “Provisions reordering the football system”, introduced by Senator Paolo Marcheschi from the Brothers of Italy (FdI) party. The bill aims to restore stability, competitiveness and public trust in Italian football through wide-ranging governance and financial changes.
The proposal has gained attention due to FdI’s position as the leading party in Italy’s governing coalition under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Its objectives also reflect wider reforms promoted by Sports Minister Andrea Abodi after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A key element of the legislation is a new 2% contribution from football betting revenue generated through both online platforms and retail betting shops. The levy would apply to wagers on competitions managed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Supporters of the bill want the measures introduced from 1 January 2027, with oversight from the FIGC and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF).
According to Marcheschi’s proposal, the betting contribution could generate around €230m each year. The senator argues the money would create a dedicated source of funding to address long-standing problems in Italian football, from youth development to social projects.
Under the current plan, at least half of the annual funds, approximately €115m, would be directed towards youth football. Investment would focus on academy systems, regional training centres, public sports facilities, women’s football growth and incentives for clubs developing Italian-trained players.
Lawmakers behind the reform believe stronger investment in young players is essential after years of concern over Italy’s ability to consistently produce elite domestic talent.
The bill also includes a major responsible gambling element. Around 30% of the revenue, estimated at €69m per year, would support gambling harm prevention programmes and broader social initiatives designed to encourage young people to participate in organised sport.
The remaining 20%, approximately €46m annually, would support women’s football and amateur football development.
To avoid increasing the overall tax burden on betting operators, the proposal includes plans to reduce Italy’s PREU fixed-odds betting levy, balancing the introduction of the new contribution.
The debate comes as newly elected FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has also supported the idea of reinvesting new football-related revenue streams into modernising the Italian game.
Malagò has highlighted youth academies, women’s football and stronger pathways for young Italian players as priorities for the federation’s future.
With the reform touching areas including betting, media rights, governance and club sustainability, the proposal is expected to become a major political discussion ahead of Italy’s 2027 general election.