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Roberto Baggio, one of the brightest figures in the history of Italian football, has expressed his greatest desire for the 2026 World Cup and has called on Italy to qualify and return to the spotlight.
Interviewed by FIFA, Baggio stressed the importance of this tournament, which will be held for the first time in three countries — the USA, Canada and Mexico — and is certain that a participation by the Italian team would be a source of pride and joy for the many football fans around the world.
" Don't disappoint your compatriots," Baggio said in his interview, stressing that Italy's qualification is not just a victory for football, but also for Italian communities abroad. I hope the Italian national team is there, because there are so many compatriots who live, breathe and want to see Italy as protagonists in the World Cup. My wish is for them to be there, so as not to disappoint all these people full of passion and love for our colours ."
Return to the USA and memories of 1994
The return of the World Cup to the United States has brought back fond memories for Baggio, who led Italy to the 1994 final, a memorable but bittersweet one. That year, Italy lost the final in Pasadena to Brazil after a dramatic penalty shootout. For Baggio, it was a fantastic experience, despite the bitter ending:
“ It was a fantastic moment… except for the last act, where I was a key player, but in a negative way ,” he described. “ For me, it was something wonderful, unique, and I will remember it for the rest of my life .”
Message to the new generation: " Give 100% to avoid regrets "
Baggio also gave a message to the new generation of players, stressing that they should experience the tournament with the passion he and the 1994 team had. “ I hope everyone experiences it with the passion we had, knowing that we will never return. Everyone will have to give 100% to avoid regrets .” It was a reminder to the players who know that, when we go for a big goal, there is no room for failure.
Opinion on the 48-team World Cup
Regarding the changes that the 2026 World Cup will bring, which will select 48 teams for the first time, Baggio welcomed this FIFA revolution:
" I think it's a very important opportunity. The good thing is that there will be so many new teams that can participate in this event ."
This change will open the door for national teams that have historically been outside of football's big four groups and will increase competition in the most important sporting tournament on the planet.
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