Serie A Chief Blames Illegal Streaming For Italy’s Decline.
Serie A President Lorenzo Casini has attributed Italy’s declining competitiveness in European football to the rampant issue of illegal streaming, which he claims costs the league over €500 million annually. Speaking at a conference in Milan on 18 June 2025, Casini argued that piracy deprives clubs of crucial broadcast revenue, limiting investments in talent and infrastructure.
The Italian league, once Europe’s dominant force, has struggled to keep pace with the Premier League and La Liga, with only one Italian club, Atalanta, reaching a European final since 2010. Casini’s remarks come amid a reported 20% decline in illegal streaming in Italy, yet the problem persists.
Casini highlighted that illegal streaming platforms, often hosted outside Italy, siphon viewership from official broadcasters like DAZN and Sky Italia, reducing subscription income. This financial strain has forced clubs like Juventus and AC Milan to rely on youth academies rather than high-profile signings, weakening their Champions League performances. He cited data showing that 30% of Serie A matches are accessed illegally, particularly among younger fans, undermining the league’s global appeal. Casini called for stricter international cooperation to shut down pirate sites and tougher penalties for users.
Clubs and fans have mixed reactions. Inter Milan’s CEO, Giuseppe Marotta, supported Casini’s push for government action, noting that revenue losses impact player wages and stadium upgrades. However, fan groups argue that high subscription costs drive piracy, urging Serie A to lower prices.
The Italian government has introduced anti-piracy laws, including fines of up to €5,000 for viewers, but enforcement remains challenging. Casini’s comments echo broader concerns about football’s financial sustainability, with parallels to current financial struggles, among Italian teams.
The fight against illegal streaming is critical for Serie A’s revival, with Casini announcing plans for a task force to collaborate with tech firms and law enforcement. The league’s ability to attract global audiences and compete with wealthier rivals depends on curbing piracy. As Italy prepares to co-host the 2032 Euros, resolving this issue could restore Serie A’s prestige, but it requires balancing accessibility with profitability. For now, Casini’s warnings underscore the urgent need for action to safeguard Italian football’s future.
