Giuseppe "Giussy" Farina, a prominent figure in Italian football, passed away on April 22, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in Gambellara, Veneto, on July 25, 1933, Farina's life was a tapestry of footballing triumphs, entrepreneurial ventures, and personal charisma. His legacy is intertwined with two major clubs: Lanerossi Vicenza and AC Milan, where he made significant contributions that shaped their histories.
Farina's journey in football began when he took over the presidency of Lanerossi Vicenza in 1968. Under his leadership, the club achieved remarkable success, culminating in a second-place finish in Serie A during the 1977-78 season. This period saw the emergence of Paolo Rossi, who would later become a national hero during the 1982 World Cup. The team was affectionately dubbed "Real Vicenza" due to their impressive performances and style of play.
Farina's tenure at Vicenza was not without its challenges. In a bold move, he made a staggering offer of 2 billion 612 million lire to secure Rossi's rights from Juventus, which reflected his deep commitment to the club. However, this financial gamble ultimately strained the club's finances and contributed to their relegation in 1979.
After his time at Vicenza, Farina's football journey continued as he acquired Calcio Padova in 1975, a club he owned until 1979. His passion for football was evident as he also briefly owned several other clubs in the Veneto region, including Audace San Michele, Valdagno, Legnago, Schio, Rovigo, and Belluno. Farina’s involvement in football extended beyond ownership; he was known for his colorful personality and a flair for the dramatic, often engaging with fans and media in entertaining ways.
In January 1982, Farina took a significant step by purchasing AC Milan, a club that had recently faced relegation to Serie B. His arrival at Milan marked a turning point for the club, as he quickly set about restoring its former glory. Under his presidency, the Rossoneri returned to Serie A and began to solidify their place in Italian football. He brought in notable players such as Nils Liedholm as coach and the English duo Ray Wilkins and Mark Hateley, who played crucial roles in revitalizing the team.
Despite the initial resurgence, Farina's time at Milan was marked by ups and downs. The club's performance fluctuated, and while they had some successes, including a memorable derby victory against Inter, the financial pressures began to mount. Ultimately, in 1986, Farina sold the club to Silvio Berlusconi, who would go on to transform Milan into one of the most successful clubs in the world.
Farina's contributions to football extended beyond the pitch. He was known for his keen business acumen and his ability to navigate the complexities of football management during a time when the sport was undergoing significant changes. His experiences and challenges reflected the broader narrative of Italian football in the late 20th century, characterized by passionate ownership and dramatic shifts in club fortunes.
In 2006, Farina attempted to re-enter the football scene by forming a consortium to acquire Hellas Verona, but this venture did not materialize. Nevertheless, his enduring love for football remained evident throughout his life. He was often seen reminiscing about his years in the sport, recounting tales of triumph and tribulation with a twinkle in his eye.
Farina's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football community. Adriano Galliani, a prominent figure in Italian football, expressed condolences on behalf of Monza, highlighting Farina's impact on the sport and the deep respect he garnered from peers and fans alike. His legacy as a passionate, sometimes controversial figure in Italian football will undoubtedly be remembered.
As the football world mourns his passing, it reflects on the era that Farina helped shape—a time of passionate club ownership and fierce competition. His story is not just one of football; it is a narrative of ambition, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of a man who dedicated his life to the beautiful game.
Giuseppe "Giussy" Farina leaves behind a rich legacy that will be remembered by generations of football fans. His contributions to Vicenza and Milan, as well as his colorful personality, ensured that he would remain a beloved figure in the hearts of many. As we remember him, we celebrate not just his achievements but also the passion for football that he instilled in those around him.
