The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) inaugurated the second stage of its “Il calcio torna in piazza” initiative in Milan’s Piazzale Selinunte on Friday, despite rainy conditions.
The project, an offshoot of the “Casa Azzurri on Tour” program, aims to bring street soccer back to local communities ahead of the Italy-France Nations League match.
The temporary soccer pitch will remain in the square through Sunday, November 15. The initiative follows an initial event held in Rome during the Italy-Belgium fixture.
“Il calcio torna in piazza is a special initiative, and it is beautiful to give this type of signal before matches,” said Giovanni Malagò, Commissioner of the FIGC. “With these initiatives, football can be experienced in its purest expression. Thanks to all those who contributed to the realization of this project, which allows so many children to be able to play football in freedom.”
The setup in Milan is designed to mimic the spontaneous nature of street soccer. Participants can register individually on-site, with teams formed organically among those present. Alongside the main pitch, the area features dedicated spaces for street skills, dribbling, and ball control challenges.
Martina Riva, Milan’s Councilor for Sport, noted the role of the pitch in fostering local engagement. “Thanks to the FIGC for this wonderful little pitch,” she said. “The National team’s match inaugurates a weekend of sport, sociality, and inclusion.”
Former Italy defender Alessandro Costacurta also visited the site to greet the participants. “I go back many years, to when I too played in a little pitch like this,” Costacurta said. “I hope the children can have the possibility to play, to have fun, and above all to dream.”
The initiative is supported by various partners, including Adidas, which provides the technical equipment, and Esselunga, which is supplying snacks for participants. The area is open to the public during the following hours:
- Friday, November 13: 16:00 to 19:00
- Saturday, November 14: 10:30 to 19:00
- Sunday, November 15: 10:30 to 19:00
Participation is free of charge. Organizers require all attendees to complete registration documentation, and minors must provide authorization from a parent or legal guardian to access the playing area.
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