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Gravina's Response to Speculation on Open VAR and Tonali Concerns

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina addressed various issues during the recent Federal Council meeting, shedding light on the ambiguity surrounding Open VAR and expressing moderate concern regarding Tonali. Read on for more insights.

Gravina's Response to Speculation on Open VAR and Tonali Concerns

Remarks by FIGC President Gravina on the sidelines of the Federal Council meetingFIGC President Gabriele Gravina spoke at a press conference following today’s Federal Council meeting held at the Federation’s headquarters."Today’s meeting was a significant one. I wanted to examine very carefully the internal divisions within the AIA and the tensions that were being fuelled by certain comments. We are awaiting the appeal – details of which have not yet been communicated to us – regarding the suspension of the AIA president, which was confirmed on 23 February.""The other issue concerned Open VAR, which has given rise to some inappropriate speculation. Certain comments have distorted the purpose of the project, which was inspired by the principle of maximum transparency and could have served as a tool for training and information. Unfortunately, it has been exploited; we have condemned violence against referees and reiterated the measures taken by the federation since 2019 to tighten sanctions.""I’m not worried; in fact, I’m quite calm. I’m in close contact with Gattuso, whom I’d like to thank once again for the extraordinary work he’s been doing over the past few months. He’s doing a commendable job. I spoke to Sandro last night, along with Mr Gattuso and Dr De Carli; he seemed more relaxed than when he left. There is cause for concern, but it’s moderate. This morning’s tests have provided some reassurance; we must do everything in our power and that of Newcastle to get him back to full fitness.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

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Gravina's Remarks at the Federal Council Meeting

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina provided key updates following the Federal Council meeting, emphasizing the need to address internal divisions within the AIA and the misuse of Open VAR. Gravina condemned the exploitation of the project, highlighting its original intent of promoting transparency and enhancing referee training.

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Clarifying the Open VAR Issue

Gravina expressed disappointment at the inappropriate speculation surrounding Open VAR, stressing the importance of understanding its core purpose. The project aimed to increase transparency and offer valuable training resources, but it has been misinterpreted. Gravina reiterated the Federation's stance against violence towards referees and underscored the organization's ongoing efforts to strengthen disciplinary actions.

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Tonali Concerns and Gattuso's Role

Gravina discussed the situation concerning Tonali, acknowledging a level of concern while emphasizing a measured approach. He praised Gattuso for his outstanding work and expressed confidence in the ongoing management of the matter. Gravina highlighted the collaborative efforts with Newcastle to ensure Tonali's full recovery, citing recent tests that provided reassurance.

Published on Mar 19, 2026