Roberto Mancini has once again been tasked with revitalizing an Italy team in crisis.

Italy's soccer federation president has resigned amid political pressure after the national team failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.

The backlash against Israel over the humanitarian toll of the war in Gaza has spread into the arenas of sports and culture.

Top-flight soccer matches in Italy and Argentina have been postponed after the death of Pope Francis.

FILE - In this July 5, 1982 file photo, Italy's Paolo Rossi, left, celebrates, after scoring the second goal for his team during their World Cup second round soccer match against Brazil, in Barcelona, Spain. (AP Photo/File)ROME – Paolo Rossi, who led Italy to the 1982 World Cup title and later worked as a soccer commentator in his home country, has died. State-run RAI, where Rossi worked after his playing career, said Thursday he died of an incurable illness. Rossi had a remarkable career comeback, leading Italy to the World Cup title after returning from a suspension following a betting scandal in 1980. “Very sad news: Paolo Rossi left us,” Varriale wrote.

All matches will initially take place without any spectators but Italian soccer is considering the possibility of allowing fans into stadiums from next month. The Italian federation issued a 40-page document on Monday outlining strict new rules for the resumption of Serie A on June 20. However, Italian media reports that the federation could discuss at its next meeting allowing limited numbers of fans to attend. The Italian Cup will be completed in the week before Serie A restarts. There are clear rules that allow you to continue activity, isolating an athlete or member of staff, and continuing training.