Gian Paolo Ormezzano, one of Italy's most esteemed sports journalists, died this morning at the age of 89, leaving behind a rich legacy of sports writing and deep ties to Torino and its beloved football club, Torino FC. Known affectionately as the "Cantore del Toro" (the Singer of Toro), Ormezzano's career spanned decades where he showcased his passion for storytelling through his reporting.
Ormezzano passed away due to sudden health complications at his home near corso Tassoni and the Maria Vittoria hospital. He had been facing health issues for some time, but his family was fortunate enough to celebrate Christmas with him just days before his passing. His son, Timothy, who also follows his father’s footsteps as a journalist, shared, "We had the opportunity to enjoy our time with him and say goodbye over the holidays."
Hailing from Crocemosso, part of Valdilana, Ormezzano had been the director of Tuttosport for many years and was also known for his editorial work with prominent publications like La Stampa and the Guerin Sportivo. His multifaceted career included roles as a commentator for television and as the author of several books, where he recounted captivating anecdotes of his experiences and the personalities he encountered throughout his career.
Ormezzano’s passion for sports was evident from his writings, especially his nostalgic recounts of the Torino Football Club’s illustrious history, particularly the team during the era of the Great Torino led by Valentino Mazzola. His unwavering support for his team was balanced with journalistic integrity, never allowing his fandom to cloud his reporting. He once famously remarked, “I believe my fortunes have been not being born a woman in Afghanistan or a Juventus fan in Turin,” showcasing his characteristic humor and perspective.
Throughout his career, he was not only witness to major sporting events—ranging from the 1960 Rome Olympics to the 1982 World Cup victory by Italy—but also reported on significant historical moments like the Apollo 11 Moon landing and the tragic Munich 1972 Olympics. The breadth of his reporting went beyond mere sports; he captured the essence of societal dynamics through the lens of athletics.
Tributes to Ormezzano have poured in from around Italy, particularly within the journalistic community and the sports world. Stefano Tallia, President of the Order of Journalists of Piedmont, remembered Ormezzano as “one of the brightest pens of Piedmontese journalism, a master for generations of colleagues.” He highlighted Ormezzano's blend of rigor, passion, and irony, emphasizing how he transcended the simple reporting of sports events to narrate the human aspects and stories behind them.
The Torino Football Club also expressed its sorrow, with President Urbano Cairo stating, "With the passing of Gian Paolo Ormezzano, we lose a unique voice, deeply connected to Turin. He was capable of transmitting the values of sports and passion for journalism to different generations." This sentiment is echoed throughout the sports community as many recognize his contributions and the mark he left on Italian journalism.
Ormezzano’s family, including his wife and three children, will continue to cherish his memories and legacy through his numerous writings and the stories he shared. Many of his colleagues and admirers are committed to preserving the example he set through his dedication to the craft of journalism, which intertwined humor, expertise, and passion.
His extensive body of work ensures his memory lives on, with an impressive collection of books and articles available for future generations. With many readers having enjoyed the brilliance and originality of his writings, Ormezzano is remembered not only as a journalist but as a storyteller whose narratives captured the heart and spirit of sports fandom and community.
The funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but the tributes continue to grow as those who knew him or were influenced by his work come together to celebrate his life and contributions to sports journalism. Gian Paolo Ormezzano will be missed dearly, but his legacy will endure within the hearts of the many he inspired.
