Italy Has Failed to Qualify for Three Straight World Cups. Are the Country’s Immigration Policies to Blame?
Italy's national football team has failed to qualify for the World Cup for three consecutive tournaments, raising questions about the reasons behind this decline. The conversation has shifted towards the country's immigration policies, which some believe have contributed to a shrinking pool of eligible young players. As Italy's demographics change, the team's lack of diversity has become increasingly apparent amidst its struggles on the international stage.
- ▪Italy has not qualified for the World Cup since winning in 2006, marking a significant decline in its football reputation.
- ▪The national team faced elimination in the qualifying rounds against smaller countries, culminating in a loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- ▪Critics argue that outdated coaching tactics and a lack of interest among youth are contributing factors to Italy's football woes.
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The LedeItaly Has Failed to Qualify for Three Straight World Cups. Are the Country’s Immigration Policies to Blame?After winning the tournament in 2006, gli Azzurri have become a national embarrassment, and their failure has sparked a conversation in Italy over who gets to be a citizen.By Albert SamahaMay 30, 2026Illustration by Patrick LegerSave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyThe night Italy defeated France in the 2006 World Cup final, Mario de Rossi was studying at a small university in Puglia. Though he had exams the next day, he still ventured out into a piazza afterward and celebrated late into the night. He showed up to his exams bleary-eyed, and wearing his Azzurri shirt.
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