Italian Cycling Federation Crisis: Investigation into President’s Son’s Appointments
The Italian cycling community is currently embroiled in a significant crisis, marked by internal conflicts, governance issues, and a notable decline in international performance. Central to this turmoil is an investigation into the Italian Cycling Federation’s (FCI) communication practices, particularly focusing on the involvement of President Cordiano Dagnoni’s son, Ludovico Dagnoni, and his company, Dadimatto Agency.
Communication Practices and Allegations of Nepotism
In the summer of 2022, the FCI sought to enhance its digital presence by creating content for its Spotify profile and social media channels. Without initiating a public tender, the federation contracted Dadimatto Agency, a newly established firm co-founded by Ludovico Dagnoni and Gianluca Di Loglio, a federal employee. This decision has raised concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest, as Di Loglio had been working with the FCI since 2021 and was officially registered as a federal employee in 2022.
The collaboration between the FCI and Dadimatto Agency has expanded over the years. In 2024, the agency produced a promotional video featuring cyclist Elia Viviani inside the Velodrome of Montichiari, which was restricted to athletes preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics. In 2025, Dadimatto Agency led a road safety campaign starring President Dagnoni himself. By January 2026, the agency transitioned into a limited liability company, with equal ownership between Ludovico Dagnoni and Gianluca Di Loglio, who also assumed the role of administrator.
Financial Concerns and Use of Olympic Branding
Despite not being listed as official partners or sponsors of the FCI or the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), Dadimatto Agency has been able to associate its brand with the national cycling team’s jerseys and Olympic symbols. This association has significantly enhanced the agency’s prestige and portfolio, raising questions about the use of public funds and the transparency of financial allocations within the federation.
Governance Issues and the Commissariamento of the Professional Cycling League
The FCI’s internal conflicts have also manifested in its relationship with the Professional Cycling League, led by Roberto Pella. In July 2026, the FCI’s Federal Council decided to dissolve the league’s governance, appointing General Mauro Capone as the extraordinary commissioner. This move was prompted by alleged serious violations of federal norms and the convention signed in August 2024. Pella has contested the decision, defending the league’s autonomy and the integrity of its management.
Decline in International Performance and Youth Development Challenges
Amidst these administrative upheavals, the Italian national cycling team has faced a significant decline in international performance. The 2026 Tour de France highlighted this downturn, with no stage victories and no Italian riders in the top ten of the general classification. This lack of competitiveness is attributed to issues such as a crisis in youth development programs, with a sharp decline in registrations among young cyclists, and ongoing concerns about road safety for cyclists.
Conclusion
The Italian Cycling Federation is at a crossroads, grappling with governance challenges, financial transparency issues, and a decline in athletic performance. The investigation into the Dagnoni family’s involvement in the federation’s communication strategies underscores the need for a comprehensive review of the federation’s practices and priorities. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the future of Italian cycling, both administratively and competitively.