Corruption, Mafia Power and Italian Soccer

This book explores the connections between organized crime, corruption, and Italian soccer, revealing how these elements reflect the broader socio-political landscape in Italy.

This book provides an original perspective on the intricate relationship between corruption, organized crime, and the world of sports, specifically focusing on Italian soccer. Corruption, Mafia Power and Italian Soccer reveals how the presence of corruption and mafia influence within the sport mirrors broader issues within the Italian power structure. By examining this connection, the book sheds light on a previously underexplored area of research that links criminal activity directly to the realm of athletics.

Utilizing a psycho-social framework grounded in Pierre Bourdieu's praxeology, the author delves into the socio-political and economic factors that enable corruption and mafia infiltration in Italian soccer. Through comprehensive interviews with officials from security agencies, anti-corruption organizations, and anti-mafia groups, the text provides empirical insights into the dynamics at play. A case study of 'Operation Dirty Soccer' serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of mafia involvement in the sport.

The book also addresses the mechanisms through which mafia groups gain access to the football industry, detailing their methods of exploitation and corruption. This vital study is not only relevant for students and researchers in sociology, criminology, and sports management but also serves as a crucial resource for professionals within the football industry seeking to understand and combat these pervasive issues. Corruption, Mafia Power and Italian Soccer ultimately aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the sport in Italy.