At 80 years young, Gianni Petrucci stands as a towering figure in Italian sport and public life. A man whose career spans decades, navigating the complex interplay of athletics, politics, and personal passions with a distinctive, often irreverent, charm. This is not merely a recounting of accolades, but an exploration of the principles, quirks, and formidable connections that have defined his remarkable journey.
The Philosopher of the Power Nap
Petrucci, currently at the helm of the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP) and formerly president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), recently celebrated his 80th birthday. A milestone he admits he initially found little enthusiasm for, preferring quiet evenings over grand festivities. This preference for domesticity was once playfully highlighted by Franco Carraro, a significant figure in Italian football, who praised Petrucci`s consistent presence at home each evening. Yet, for Petrucci, “being home” doesn`t equate to extensive sleep. He famously quipped,
“I sleep very little. And I`ve noticed that those who do are smarter than others: they start earlier and have more time for things to do.”
A bold claim, perhaps, but one softened by his unwavering devotion to a sacrosanct thirty-minute afternoon nap – a habit he attributes to none other than Gianni Agnelli, the iconic industrialist. Copying the great, he muses, is a subtle way of aspiring to greatness oneself.
From Humble Beginnings to Sports Pantheon
Petrucci’s path to the pinnacle of Italian sport was not preordained. While his brothers pursued academia and law, he deftly avoided the family clothing business, seizing an unexpected entry into CONI through an uncle connected to the national lottery bank. This seemingly serendipitous start placed him under the wing of Giulio Onesti, the legendary CONI president credited with transforming the committee into a global leader, establishing centers like Coverciano and the Institute of Sports Medicine. Onesti’s mentorship was pivotal, even advising Petrucci to abandon his nascent union activism for a promising career in sports administration. It was a strategic move that undeniably paid dividends.
A Tightrope Walk: Sport, State, and Shifting Alliances
Petrucci`s career is a masterclass in navigating the intricate web of Italian politics and sport. He has served under six different heads of government, a testament to his adaptability and pragmatic philosophy. His stance is clear: “Sport belongs to the State. The State delegates to CONI, and CONI to the federations. Sport must be autonomous, yes, but with a grain of salt: the money comes from the State.” This technical yet insightful perspective underscores his understanding of power dynamics and resource allocation, enabling him to build bridges across the political spectrum, from Christian Democrats to the right-wing. He attributes his career progression not to political favors, but to his own strategic battles and determination.
The Power of Persuasion: From Berlusconi`s Generosity to Armani`s Style
Throughout his tenure, Petrucci cultivated relationships with some of Italy`s most influential figures. He recalls Silvio Berlusconi, the media magnate and former Prime Minister, with particular fondness, describing him as charismatic, generous (personally gifting expensive watches to Olympic medalists), and remarkably approachable, often facilitated by Gianni Letta. His ingenuity also shone through in moments of crisis: when sportswear sponsor Benetton withdrew its support for Olympic uniforms, Petrucci had the inspired idea to approach Giorgio Armani, whose enthusiastic endorsement brought unparalleled style to the Italian Olympic delegation.
The Lazio Heart, the Roma Challenge
Perhaps one of the most intriguing chapters in Petrucci`s storied career involves his brief stint as Vice President of AS Roma, the city`s other major football club. A lifelong “Lazialotto” – a devoted fan of SS Lazio since his youth, attending matches from the curva and greeting players at the train station – this appointment was, remarkably, an initiative proposed by none other than Giulio Andreotti, the multi-time Prime Minister. It was, as Petrucci wryly remembers, an experience fraught with “months of protest and two bodyguards following me everywhere.” A true testament to the fervent, often tribal, passions of Italian football. He even recalls a specific Lazio-Napoli match where a crucial goal was disallowed because the ball, having entered the net, then exited through a hole – a tale that only a seasoned fan would cherish.
Basketball`s Unyielding Champion
Despite his extensive involvement across various sports and political spheres, basketball remains Petrucci’s enduring passion. As current FIP President, he fiercely defends its global standing. “After football,” he insists, “it is the most known sport in the world.” He cherishes memories of Italy`s two European Championship victories in basketball under coaches Gamba and Tanjevic, alongside the euphoria of Italy`s 2006 FIFA World Cup triumph – a moment so intense he famously rushed onto the field to embrace Francesco Totti after a last-minute penalty, “ruining my suit, but who cared?”
A Legacy Marked by Peaks and Valleys
Petrucci’s journey is not without its somber notes. He acknowledges the “quite a few doping cases” that have marred the integrity of sport, lamenting the involvement of figures like Diego Maradona, whom he unequivocally declares “the greatest of all, not Pelé.” His willingness to confront such uncomfortable truths, even while celebrating the triumphs, adds another layer to his complex character. From dining with Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle to brokering peace through sport with Shimon Peres and Yasser Arafat, Gianni Petrucci has traversed a path few could imagine. He is a man who reads every newspaper by 6:30 AM, believing “who doesn`t read has no luck,” and whose life is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of Italian sport, politics, and a perpetually active mind. His legacy is one of unwavering dedication, strategic acumen, and a distinctly Italian flair – a true maestro of the arena.
Benedict Kingsley 
Adrian Whitmore