Italy is missing its third straight World Cup, having last qualified in 2014. For a nation globally defined by pizza, popes, and art, this sideline status creates a rare opportunity. Italians worldwide are now embracing an unexpected sport that usually flies under the cultural radar.
Passionate football fans follow the NFL, NCAA football, maybe the CFL, or some European leagues, but football has enjoyed a presence in Italy for more than a generation. In an interview on the Ross Tucker Football Podcast, former New York Giant and Arizona Cardinals offensive guard Justin Pugh discussed his new role as Commissioner and Ambassador for the Italian Football League (IFL).
