Football is in mourning for the death of Rocco Commisso, owner of Fiorentina
Rocco Commisso passed away at 76. The businessman was also the owner of the New York Cosmos. Gianni Infantino spoke out
Italian football will face matchday 21 of Serie A amidst mourning for the death of Rocco Commisso. The owner of Fiorentina and president of Mediacom Communications passed away at 75 in the United States. Commisso reportedly had some health problems related to his sciatic nerve.
“After a long period of medical treatment, our beloved president has left us, and today we all mourn his passing. His love for Fiorentina was the greatest gift he gave himself,” Fiorentina reported.
A few months ago, Commisso underwent surgery in New York for lumbosciatica (a condition that causes severe back pain). This prevented Commisso from being closely involved with Fiorentina. However, there is no information linking this health problem to his death.
Rocco Commisso was the owner of the New York Cosmos in the United States. In 2019, the businessman became the owner of Fiorentina. Commisso was known for his commitment to the development of Italian football and its infrastructure.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also paid tribute to the president. Infantino revealed details of Commisso's relationship with his players. Commisso was affectionate with his players. He will leave a void at the Italian club.
“I am saddened by the news of the passing of Rocco Commisso, president of Fiorentina, who dedicated his life to our wonderful sport (…) When I met him, he spoke of his players as if they were his children, of his club as if it were a part of himself. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and worked with him. A great man,” Infantino wrote.
The New York Cosmos also issued a statement following the loss of the renowned leader. The American club remembered Rocco Commisso as an important figure in the growth of the sport in the country.
“A passionate leader who dedicated his life to soccer and the future of the sport in this country. Rocco fought for the best for American soccer,“Believing in the growth of the game, the importance of community, and the power of clubs to inspire the next generation,” the club wrote on its social media.