The world of Italian gymnastics is mourning the loss of Miranda Cicognani, who passed away at the age of 88 on January 31, 2025. Born 88 years ago in Forlì, Cicognani was not only a celebrated gymnast but also made history as the first woman to carry the Italian flag at the Summer Olympics, achieving this honor at the 1952 Helsinki Games.
Miranda Cicognani's illustrious career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on Italian sport. After her Olympian debut at the age of 15, she carried the flag for the Italian team during the opening ceremony of the Helsinki Olympics, becoming a trailblazer for female athletes. She later competed again at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and the 1960 Rome Olympics, achieving the remarkable feat of participating in three consecutive Olympic Games—a unique record alongside fellow gymnasts Monica Bergamelli and Vanessa Ferrari.
Not merely content with her Olympic appearances, Cicognani established herself as a national champion, winning the gold medal five times at the Italian Absolute Championships from 1956 to 1962. This record still stands today, interrupted only by her sister Rosella, who clinched the title in 1959 and 1961.
After hanging up her competitive leotard, Cicognani continued to contribute to the sport she loved by transitioning to judging, where she officiated at six Olympic Games between 1976 and 2000, except for the 1980 Moscow Olympics due to the boycott. Her most memorable moment as a judge came during the Montreal Games when she infamously awarded the first perfect 10 to Romanian gymnast Nadia Comăneci.
The shock of her passing reverberated through the gymnastics community, with the President of CONI, Giovanni Malagò, expressing, "The President of CONI, Giovanni Malagò, representing the sentiments of the entire movement, joins the condolences of the relatives and the gymnastics family for the loss of one of the protagonists of the discipline and a pioneer of the female gender in Italian Olympic sport." Such tributes reflect the high esteem held for her contributions, not just as an athlete but as a role model for generations to come.
Local officials also expressed their sorrow, with Gian Luca Zattini, the Mayor of Forlì, and Kevin Bravi, the City Councilor, stating, "With deep sorrow, we learned of Miranda Cicognani's passing, an internationally ranked athlete, citizen with great civic sense, and immortal Flag Bearer of Forlì's sport." They also emphasized the inspiration she embodied during difficult times for Italy, especially during the Reconstruction post-World War II.
Understanding her influence went beyond the gym floor, her former peers and those she guided shared heartfelt sentiments. Donatella Sacchi, current president of the FIG Technical Committee, noted, "She was always a legend in the field; many foreign colleagues who knew her have sent their condolences." These words attribute not only to her athletic prowess but also to her mentorship and legacy within the sport.
The city of Forlì will honor Miranda Cicognani, recognizing her achievements and contributions to athletics. The city administration is planning to commemorate her during the next municipal council session, underlining her importance as one of Forlì's most distinguished athletes.
Miranda Cicognani's life is characterized by her dedication to gymnastics, both as a competitor and later as a respected judge. She leaves behind not just memories of her athletic accomplishments but also significant contributions to the sport’s governance and development. Another piece of history has left us, but the legacy of her remarkable life and indomitable spirit will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.