Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi has resigned just a year and a half after being sworn in as leader

The resignation has prompted the nation’s president to dissolve parliament, paving the way for an election to take place.

Mario Draghi told President Sergio he has stood down after three parties from within his ruling coalition refused to support him in a confidence vote.

He will remain caretaker of the government until the elections take place in a few months’ time.

Now all eyes are turning to the key contenders for Italy’s top job, with far-right factional leader Giorgia Meloni already tipped to win.