Mattarella Praises Italy’s Volleyball Teams as Formidable Champions

Rome: President Sergio Mattarella on Wednesday emotionally thanked Italy’s men’s and women’s volleyball teams for becoming world champions recently, describing their achievements as “formidable”. “You were and have been formidable. The entire country followed you, and is grateful to you,” he said. “The finals were exciting,” added the President of the Republic, who received the two national teams at the Quirinale Palace.

According to Ansa News Agency, Mattarella expressed his gratitude to the teams’ leaders, women’s coach Julio Velasco and men’s coach Ferdinando De Giorgi, acknowledging their composure during critical moments. “I thank the two leaders, Velasco and De Giorgi, and I admire their calmness in offering advice in the most tense moments, during timeouts,” he remarked.

Mattarella further emphasized his agreement with Velasco’s recent comments on the emergence of an “exceptional generation.” He noted, “I applauded Velasco when a few days ago he lashed out at my generation, or even the next, who always criticizes young people. I completely agree, an exceptional generation is emerging.”

The President also highlighted the broader impact of the teams’ victories, stating, “Among your rewards is also having encouraged so many young people to take up sports: it’s an important contribution to our country, and adds value to your successes.”