Paola Ferrari, the prominent face of Italian sports journalism, has not only made headlines for her career but also for her family life. Married since 1997 to Marco De Benedetti, the couple has two children, Alessandro and Virginia, born respectively in 1998 and 1999. Despite the intense media scrutiny and distinctive challenges associated with being part of the De Benedetti family, Ferrari has always prioritized her role as a mother.
The connection between Paola and Marco, orchestrated by mutual friend Alba Parietti, blossomed quickly. She recounted the tale of their meeting, sharing, “I didn’t want to go; she pulled me out of the bathtub.” Their shared love led them to tie the knot on April 10, 1997, providing them the opportunity to build their family.
Alessandro and Virginia are described as incredibly reserved individuals, with little reveal about their personalities aside from what their famous mother shares on social media. "Like all working mothers, I have feelings of guilt but try to compensate by spending all my free time with them, avoiding social life. I impose rules, try to communicate, and even when we often fight, they are model children," said Paola Ferrari, openly acknowledging the balancing act of motherhood and her career.
Marco, born in 1962, is certainly not at the margins of Italian business. He is the son of Carlo De Benedetti, renowned businessman and publisher. Marco has built a successful career following his father’s legacy; he currently serves as the president of the GEDI editorial group and was once CEO of Telecom Italia. This prestigious family background has not been without complications, particularly concerning his parents' opinions on his marriage.
Carlo De Benedetti, Marco’s father, has been known for his left-political engagements, contrasting sharply with Paola’s more right-leaning views. This ideological rift has resulted in some tension, with Paola acknowledging how her relationship with her father-in-law has not always been smooth. There were instances where she felt excluded, as noted when Carlo apparently left her out of his 90th birthday celebrations.
Paola’s challenges extended beyond familial relationships as she has navigated significant health hurdles. After facing skin cancer and undergoing surgery to remove it, she exhibited remarkable courage. Reflecting on her past, she recently mentioned her earlier relationship with Eros Ramazzotti, detailing how their romance was affected by the pressures of show business. She also recounted her brief affair with Prince Albert of Monaco: "We met again, and he invited me, but I was already married and very much in love with my husband as I am today."
Despite the pressures paired with fame, Paola Ferrari's commitment to her family—a balance of love and career—remains central to her identity. With both children thriving, and moments shared with them showcased through her social media, Ferrari embodies both professional dedication and personal commitment. The affection shared within the family stands firmly as her greatest joy, representing values she has instilled and nurtured over time.
