Next tie 2-3 November 2013
Italy will host Russia in the 2013 Fed Cup by BNP Paribas Final and it will be looking to make home advantage count against a nation against which it has historically struggled. In six previous meetings against Russia, Italy has won just once - in 2009 - and their only loss in their last four final appearances came against the Eastern European tennis powerhouse.
Last tie 20-21 April 2013
The Italians saw off the challenge of defending champion Czech Republic in a rain-delayed semifinal in Palermo. Roberta Vinci answered her country's call to win both of her singles rubbers, eventually clinching victory on the Monday with a thrilling win over Lucie Safarova.
History
Italy have been crowned champions on three occasions - in 2006, 2009 and 2010 - and are one of only four nations to compete in every Fed Cup. In 2006, Italy became the first nation to win the title without playing a home tie, since the home-and-away format was adopted in 1995.
Record
Roberta Vinci is the record holder in Fed Cup for winning the most doubles rubbers without defeat. Her ongoing run is currently at 18-0.