As the second Sunday of May approaches, a heartwarming initiative is set to unfold in Italy's top football league. In celebration of International Mother's Day, the Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A, in collaboration with ACF Fiorentina and AC Milan, has authorized a special event that will see players honor their mothers in a unique and touching way. During the 36th matchday of the Serie A Enilive Championship, players from both teams will take to the pitch wearing jerseys that feature their mothers' names instead of their own surnames.
This gesture, which aims to highlight the significance of motherhood and family values, will be showcased in two high-profile matches: Fiorentina's encounter against Venezia and Milan's clash with Bologna. The initiative continues a tradition that began last year, and it reflects a growing trend in Italian football to acknowledge and celebrate the personal lives of players beyond the sport.
For Fiorentina, the players have chosen a variety of names to honor their mothers. The list includes goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano, who will wear the name “MORGILLO,” while Domilson Cordeiro dos Santos will don “DALVA.” Other notable names include Edoardo Bove with “BONANNO,” Marin Pongračić as “TOLO,” and Nicolò Zaniolo, who will wear “COSTA.”
Meanwhile, AC Milan is set to follow suit with a lineup of players who will proudly display their mothers' surnames. Santiago Tomas Gimenez will wear “ZOLOTARCHUK,” while Ruben Loftus-Cheek will be identified as “CHEEK.” Luka Jovic will maintain his surname, while Rafael Leão will wear “CONCEIÇÃO.” The Milan team has a diverse list, featuring Christian Pulisic with “HARLOW” and Mike Maignan with “Y. MAIGNAN.”
This initiative is not just about the names on the jerseys; it represents a deeper connection between the players and their families, showcasing the importance of maternal figures in their lives. As players take the field, they will not only carry their mothers' names but also the love and support that shaped their journeys in football.
In addition to the on-field display, the match at San Siro on May 11, 2025, will feature a range of special activities aimed at celebrating mothers. The maternal surnames will be highlighted in the official presentation of the formations, with announcements made on the stadium's big screens. Fans can expect to see graphics celebrating the mothers of players, as well as images submitted by former Milan players and supporters from around the world.
To enhance the celebratory atmosphere, a photo wall will be set up, showcasing messages of love and appreciation from players to their mothers. The VIP lounge will welcome mother-child pairs who support Milan, offering them a unique experience during the match.
Beyond the festivities, the Milan Foundation is spearheading a fundraising campaign to support approximately 70 young adolescent mothers who are being assisted at the Spazio Indifesa hub in Milan. This initiative, which has been active since 2021, aims to provide resources and support for young mothers navigating the challenges of early parenthood. Funds will be raised through auctions of the special jerseys worn by the players, as well as through purchases made at official club stores and ticket sales for the Mondo Milan museum on match day.
The collaboration between AC Milan, Fiorentina, and the Serie A league exemplifies how sports can foster community and support social causes. By celebrating mothers, these clubs are not only honoring their players' personal histories but also highlighting the importance of family and social responsibility.
As the football world gears up for this touching tribute, fans can look forward to an emotional day filled with joy and appreciation for mothers everywhere. The matches on May 11 promise to be more than just games; they will be a celebration of family, love, and the powerful bonds that inspire athletes to achieve greatness on and off the field.
In conclusion, this initiative marks a significant step in recognizing the role of mothers in the lives of football players. As Fiorentina and Milan prepare to take the field with their mothers' names on their backs, they send a powerful message of love and gratitude, reminding us all of the vital role mothers play in shaping the lives of their children.
