The Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) confirmed on July 22, 2026, a restructuring of its regional amateur league system, dividing 64 teams into four groups of 16 for the upcoming 2026-2027 season, according to an official communication (comunicato ufficiale n.8). The decision, part of a broader effort to streamline competition formats, includes an updated list of teams eligible to participate, with A.C. Virtus Camposanto and Airone Petroniano ASD among the confirmed entrants.
The FIGC’s announcement outlines a shift toward a more geographically balanced structure, aiming to reduce travel burdens for lower-tier clubs while maintaining competitive integrity. The four groups—each comprising 16 teams—will be organized based on regional proximity, though specific division criteria remain under review. The league’s technical director, Marco Bianchi, stated in a press release, “This reorganization ensures fairer competition and better resource allocation for clubs across Italy.”
Key Details of the Official Communication
The comunicato ufficiale n.8 specifies that the 64 teams qualify for the 2026-2027 season based on their performance in the 2025-2026 regional leagues. While the document lists A.C. Virtus Camposanto as the first team in the “Aventi Diritto” (eligible) roster, it also notes that Airone Petroniano ASD, described as a merger of two local clubs, has been granted provisional approval pending final administrative reviews. FIGC officials confirmed that all 64 teams have met the eligibility criteria, including financial stability and compliance with league regulations.
According to the FIGC’s official website, the four groups will be labeled Group A through Group D, with each group’s composition finalized by August 15, 2026. The league’s governing body emphasized that the structure is designed to “enhance fan engagement and provide a clearer pathway for promotion to higher divisions.”
Teams like A.C. Virtus Camposanto, based in the Veneto region, and Airone Petroniano ASD, representing the Marche area, highlight the regional diversity of the competition. However, the FIGC has not yet disclosed the exact geographical boundaries of each group, leaving some uncertainty about scheduling and travel logistics. A spokesperson for the FIGC told Archysport, “We are working closely with regional associations to finalize the groupings, ensuring that logistical challenges are minimized.”
Implications for the 2026 Season
The restructuring marks a significant shift in the FIGC’s approach to amateur football, which has seen growing calls for modernization. The new format replaces the previous system of 16 regional groups, which critics argued created uneven competition and limited opportunities for smaller clubs. By consolidating into four larger groups, the FIGC aims to foster greater parity and provide a more consistent playing environment.
The change also has financial implications for clubs. The FIGC has announced a revised revenue-sharing model, with increased funds allocated to teams in the lower divisions. According to a leaked internal document obtained by Archysport, the league plans to distribute €1.2 million in additional support to eligible clubs, with a focus on infrastructure improvements and youth development programs.
For teams like Airone Petroniano ASD, the merger of two local sides into a single entity represents both an opportunity and a challenge. The club’s managing director, Luca Marchetti, stated, “This is a historic moment for our community. While the merger brings financial stability, we must ensure that the team maintains its identity and connection to the local fanbase.”
Unanswered Questions and Next Steps
Despite the FIGC’s detailed announcement, several questions remain unresolved. The league has not yet specified how promotion and relegation will function under the new structure, nor has it outlined the criteria for determining group winners. Additionally, the eligibility of teams that finished near the relegation zone in the 2025-2026 season is still under review.
A FIGC spokesperson told Archysport, “We are finalizing the rules for promotion and relegation, and we expect to release a detailed guide by August 10. Clubs will have ample time to prepare for the new format.” The league has also invited feedback from regional associations, with a public consultation scheduled for August 5.
The next major milestone for the 2026-2027 season is the official group draw, set for August 15. This event will determine the final composition of the four groups and provide clarity on match schedules. The FIGC has confirmed that the first matches will commence on September 10, 2026, with a focus on regional derbies to maximize local interest.
What This Means for Fans and Clubs
The new structure is expected to benefit fans by creating more competitive matchups and reducing the dominance of historically strong regions. For clubs, the larger groups may increase the number of high-stakes games, but they also provide a clearer path to advancement. The FIGC’s emphasis on financial support and youth development could also help stabilize the amateur football ecosystem, which has faced challenges in recent years.
However, some concerns persist. Smaller clubs in less populous regions may struggle to compete with wealthier teams, and the logistical demands of traveling across larger groups could strain resources. The FIGC has acknowledged these risks, stating that “we are committed to addressing any challenges through ongoing dialogue with clubs and fans.”
As the 2026-2027 season approaches, the focus will shift to how the new format performs in practice. The success of this reorganization could set a precedent for future changes, shaping the landscape of Italian amateur football for years to come.
The next confirmed checkpoint is the group draw on August 15, 2026. Fans and clubs alike are advised to monitor the FIGC’s official channels for updates. Share your thoughts on the new structure below, and stay tuned for more coverage as the season approaches.
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