(ANSA) – ROME, MAY 27 – “I was definitely for Gino Bartali.
Which, however, didn’t prevent me from being happy for the hour record or for the Coppi World Championship”. the last stage of the Giro d’Italia in Rome, which will see him present for the pink jersey award ceremony.”Personally -adds the Head of State- I remember the Giro d’Italia and the Tours of Bartali, Coppi and Magni, Baldini’s victories; the young athletes of the Rome Olympics, in ’60, with Berruti’s exciting victory in the 200m, wearing his dark glasses. The style of the D’Inzeo brothers. And then, over the years, the successes of Sara Simeoni, the records of Pietro Mennea, the power of the Abbagnale. Italy Germany 4 to 3, the World Cup in Spain with Sandro Pertini bringing the champions home”.
Mattarella then reserves a quote for “a great sportsman, Alex Zanardi. A person who has suffered and who has always reacted. I remember his smile, his optimism. Zanardi testified to what sport really is: first of all, joy to live. I send him a big hello”.
In the interview, the Head of State underlines that “sport is emotion, fun, health. But also education in community life. A way to form aware citizens. Our history is also made up of moments, results, personalities who have represented pages that are not forgotten”.
Finally, one last personal recollection: “The tennis racket has accompanied me since I was a boy and I am still sorry to have interrupted decades ago. Like all my peers I played football even though my role was usually that of the bench, precious … because it allowed to provide advice. I do not regret it also because now I am obliged to support the referees…”. (HANDLE).
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2023-05-27 11:09:25
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