ACF Fiorentina president Rocco Commisso has died at the age of 76, the Italian club announced in the early hours of Saturday.
In a statement published on its official website, Fiorentina said Commisso passed away after a prolonged period of medical treatment, describing his death as a profound loss to his family, the club, and the wider football community.
“After a long period of medical treatment, our beloved president has left us, and today we all mourn his passing,” the club said.
“For his family, he was an example and a guiding light, a loyal and faithful man who, alongside his wife Catherine, celebrated 50 years of marriage, and a strict yet loving father whose character was both gentle and determined.”
Commisso, an American-Italian businessman, acquired Fiorentina in 2019 and quickly became a central figure in the club’s identity, forging a close bond with supporters and the city of Florence.
Under his leadership, the Viola reached two UEFA Europa Conference League finals and one Coppa Italia final, while also investing heavily in infrastructure and youth development.
The club said football was one of Commisso’s greatest passions, noting that Fiorentina became the centre of his life following the takeover. Known for his personal touch and accessibility, he often insisted on being addressed simply as “Rocco.”
“His love for Fiorentina was the greatest gift he gave himself,” the statement said, recalling his frequent interactions with youth players and staff, always marked by warmth and encouragement.
Commisso remained actively involved in his businesses, Mediacom and Fiorentina, until his final days. He was also praised for his support of the city during the COVID-19 pandemic, including significant donations to Florence hospitals through the “Forza e Cuore” campaign.
Fiorentina said the club’s training complex, the Rocco B. Commisso Viola Park, would remain a lasting symbol of his vision, commitment to youth development, and affection for the club.
“The boys and girls who grew under his guidance have won trophies and continue their journey with our men’s and women’s first teams,” the statement added.
The Commisso family thanked those who supported him during his final days, while the club extended condolences to staff, players, supporters, and the entire Viola community.
“A heartfelt thought goes to everyone who carries the Viola colours and will continue to honour the memory of our Rocco in Italy and around the world,” the statement said.
Commisso is survived by his wife, Catherine; his children, Giuseppe and Marisa; and his sisters, Italia and Raffaelina.
