AC Milan is set to honor Mother's Day in a unique and heartfelt manner on Sunday, May 11, 2025, continuing a tradition that began last year. The Rossoneri will kick off their celebrations two days early during their Serie A match against Bologna on Friday, May 9, at 8:45 PM CET, marking the beginning of the 36th round of the league.
This year, players will wear jerseys featuring their mothers' surnames instead of their own, a touching tribute that aims to celebrate maternal figures in the lives of these athletes. Each player's jersey will showcase their mother's last name above the number, making for a visually striking and emotionally resonant display on the pitch.
During the lineup announcement, the San Siro speaker will read out the mothers' surnames, which will also be prominently displayed on the stadium screens, allowing fans to participate in this special celebration. The initiative is designed to involve not just the players but the entire Rossoneri family, including the club's vast fanbase of over 500 million worldwide.
"This is a beautiful way to honor our mothers, who have played such a significant role in our lives and careers," said Milan's head coach Sérgio Conceição. He added that the initiative reflects the club's commitment to family values and community support.
In addition to the jersey tribute, AC Milan is also planning special initiatives for its youth sector, Milan Futuro, and the women's first team, who will be resting during this weekend's league matches. The club has organized a fundraising campaign aimed at supporting around 70 young teenage mothers through the Fondazione Milan, which provides essential services to mothers in need.
As part of the fundraising efforts, proceeds from the auction of the jerseys worn during the match will contribute to the campaign. Furthermore, items from the new women's collection sold in the club's physical and online stores from May 9 to May 11, along with ticket sales for the Mondo Milan Museum on the day of the match, will also support the initiative.
For the players, this match holds personal significance. Christian Pulisic will wear the surname "Harlow" on his back, while Yunus Musah will don "Abubakari." Pulisic had a memorable performance last year during the same celebration, scoring two goals against Cagliari while wearing his mother's name, and he hopes to replicate that success this time around.
However, not all players will be available for the match, as Rafael Leão is suspended. Ironically, Leão's mother's last name is also Conceição, adding a layer of humor to the situation. Milan enters this match in ninth place in Serie A, and with a crucial Coppa Italia final against Bologna just days later, head coach Conceição may consider rotating his squad to keep players fresh.
The match against Bologna is particularly significant as the two teams will face each other again just five days later in the Coppa Italia final, set to take place in Rome on Wednesday, May 14. This back-to-back matchup adds an extra layer of intensity to the proceedings, as both teams will be looking to assert dominance ahead of the cup clash.
To further engage fans, Milan will utilize its digital platforms to promote the Mother's Day initiative, featuring specially designed graphics and dedicated photo and video content showcasing the players with their mothers. The club has also extended special invitations for mother-and-child Rossoneri pairs to enjoy the match from the stadium's VIP Lounge, ensuring that families can celebrate together in a memorable way.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of mothers in the lives of the players but also reinforces AC Milan's commitment to community support and social responsibility. The Spazio Indifesa Hub, which provides vital services to young mothers, will benefit from the fundraising campaign, showcasing the club's dedication to making a positive impact in the local community.
As the match day approaches, excitement builds among fans and players alike. The combination of competitive spirit on the field and heartfelt tributes off it promises to create a memorable atmosphere at San Siro. With the players sporting their mothers' names, the match against Bologna will undoubtedly be a celebration of family, love, and football.
As the Rossoneri prepare for this special occasion, they aim not only to perform well on the pitch but also to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of young mothers in need. The fusion of sport and community support exemplifies the essence of AC Milan, a club that values its roots and the people who have shaped its success.
Ultimately, this Mother's Day celebration is more than just a match; it is a testament to the values that AC Milan holds dear—respect, courage, and the strength to believe in dreams both on and off the pitch. As the players take the field wearing their mothers' surnames, they will carry with them the love and support that has propelled them to success, creating a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.
