Lecce in mourning: date chosen for make-up against Atalanta

A deep mourning has struck the world of Italian soccer and, in particular, Lecce. Earlier today Graziano Fiorita, the Salento club’s historic physiotherapist, passed away suddenly. The tragic news shocked the entire Giallorossi environment, prompting the club — in agreement with the Lega Serie A — to ask for and obtain the postponement of the challenge against Atalanta, initially scheduled for Friday, April 25 at 20:45.

The match will instead be played on Sunday, April 27, at the same time, to allow the team to return to Puglia and stand by the Fiorita family at this time of immense grief. Fiorita, 56, had been an integral part of the Lecce medical staff for more than 20 years. A respected professional and a man appreciated by all for his humanity and discretion, he accompanied the club through numerous seasons between Serie A, B and C, becoming a familiar figure for players, coaches and fans.

The club expressed its condolences through a touching statement: “In this moment of deep sorrow and total disbelief, in which any words would be superfluous, the club can only huddle around his wife Azzurra and children Carolina, Davide, Nicolò and Riccardo, his mother Francesca and all family members.”

Technician Marco Giampaolo and the entire roster also expressed great emotion over the loss of a central figure in the daily life of the group. The team decided to suspend all activities as a sign of respect and closeness to the family.

Football, today, pauses to remember a man who gave so much to his club, always behind the scenes but never invisible. Graziano Fiorita will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.