Farewell to noted journalist Furio Focolari, historic voice of sports
At the age of 78, Furio Focolari, one of the most highly regarded journalists in the sports world, passed away. Suffering from ALS for some time, he became known among the sports public especially for chronicling the exploits of Alberto Tomba.
Born in Rome on June 1, 1947, he approached the world of journalism thanks to his father Lorenzo, also a journalist (editor of L’Umanità). In 1976 he made his landing in Rai. He followed, as correspondent, Italy at the 1982 World Cup. Two years later he covered the Los Angeles Olympics.
Starting in 1985, he began covering alpine skiing. Furio Focolari became the voice narrating the exploits of Alberto Tomba, the greatest Italian skier of all time. When his adventure in Rai ended, he decided to get back into the game in the Roman radio station Radio Radio, becoming one of the columns of the flagship sports program. “I am ready…it is you who may not be,” his touching words to greet his colleagues at the radio station a few days ago. “Hello Furio, it was a show we never wanted to close”, Radio Radio”s social post upon learning the news of his passing.
During his career he covered the most important sporting events, from the World Cup to the Olympics, always demonstrating a unique professionalism. His football faith has always been Lazio.
