President Mattarella praises the women’s national football team: “You’ve honoured the shirt and the country”

AT THE QUIRINALE

24 July 2025

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President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella welcomed the Italian women’s national football team to the Quirinale following their impressive run to the semi-finals of the ongoing European Championship in Switzerland. The ceremony, held in the Hall of Mirrors, gathered the players – who returned to Italy on Wednesday after their extra-time defeat to England – alongside FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio, head coach Andrea Soncin and the entire national team staff. Also in attendance was Minister for Sport and Youth, Andrea Abodi (photo by Roberto Di Tondo/CONI).

“Congratulations on how magnificently you played at this European Championship,” said President Mattarella. “And I don’t say that because someone told me to – I watched every match I could, given the timings. It’s been a remarkable journey. I had arranged to come to Basel to support you, but sometimes a sequence of unfortunate events prevents us from reaching the final. Still, you’ve earned your own trophy and written a beautiful chapter in Italian sport with high-level performances. I asked you to make this stop in your schedule so that I could thank you. You’ve done your country proud – wearing the shirt with honour. Sport is not just essential, it’s pioneering: athletes who rise to the top inspire boys, girls, and children through their example”.

“You’ve played a high-quality tournament and sent a message to Italian society,” the Head of State continued. “Women’s football must be supported and encouraged. Compared to six years ago, great progress has been made.” Mattarella also cited Article 3 of the Constitution, which enshrines equality and equal opportunities: “Throughout history, everything has always been harder for women – a situation that, fortunately, is improving. But much remains to be done. Sport sets an example: it strengthens and improves social relations. You’ve made an important contribution towards building a fairer and more aware nation”.

“One month on from my election, I never imagined I’d be here today – I’m honoured,” said CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio. “The women’s movement has sent a strong message to all of Italian sport. Over four million citizens followed the team’s journey: we are taking our ambition to be protagonists around the world, but we must never rest – we must keep working. There must always be a next goal – and now it’s qualifying for the World Cup and the Olympic Games. My compliments to Coach Soncin, who has built a great team”.

“President Mattarella is a true reference point for our entire movement,” noted FIGC President Gabriele Gravina. “These players represent sporting excellence and carry the pride of the Azzurre jersey. They embody the spirit of an Italy that never gives up. Their smiles and tears have touched the hearts of Italians everywhere. The national team is a role model, capable of inspiring future generations thanks to its strong identity and the guidance of a sensitive coach like Andrea Soncin”.

“There’s a lot of emotion and great pride,” said Italy head coach Andrea Soncin. “Although we came just short of reaching the final, that disappointment is giving way to the pride of having inspired millions of Italians. Throughout this tournament, we’ve carried out something of a cultural campaign – offering new perspectives to young girls who dream of playing football. We thank all of Italy for supporting us right to the end”.

During the ceremony, the players presented the Head of State with a jersey signed by the entire squad and inscribed “To our President,” as well as a piece created by a goldsmith artist from Abruzzo.

“We’re leaving with the awareness that we are worthy and can keep dreaming big,” said team captain Cristiana Girelli, addressing President Mattarella. “We wear more than just a shirt – we carry the hopes of all the girls who dream of making it. We are a group that has always fought and always risen again with pride. Sport isn’t just a game – it’s culture, education, and the future”.