Palermo is in mourning following the passing of Giovanni Ferrara, the former president of the beloved Rosanero club. Ferrara died overnight at the age of 75 due to an illness, having been rushed to Palermo’s ‘Civico’ hospital where his passing was confirmed.
An entrepreneur and owner of ‘Pasta Ferrara’, Giovanni Ferrara took the helm of Palermo FC in 1988. This was just two years after the club’s devastating radiation (dissolution) in 1986, which had plunged it into uncertainty. Ferrara remained in office until 2000, playing an instrumental role in the Rosanero’s revival. Under his leadership, Palermo navigated between Serie B and Serie C1, achieving a memorable triumph in the Coppa Italia Serie C in 1993 with Orazi as coach. Fans also fondly recall the ‘Palermo dei picciotti’ era led by Ignazio Arcoleo during his tenure.
Both Palermo FC and Mayor Lagalla have expressed their profound condolences to Ferrara’s family and the entire Palermitan community.
Palermo FC’s Official Statement
«Palermo FC, with President Dario Mirri and the entire City Football Group family, expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Giovanni Ferrara, president of Palermo Calcio between 1989 and 2000. The memory of President Giovanni Ferrara will forever be cherished in the collective memory of Palermo and all its fans, with his distinguished demeanor, great passion for our colors, and extraordinary respect for people and commitments made, always in defense and protection of our Palermo. Even in very difficult and trying times for him, his family, and the Club, yet always full of passion, participation, and unconditional involvement for the team, he always defended and helped everyone.»
Mayor Lagalla’s Statement
«With deep sorrow, I learn of the passing of former Palermo president, Giovanni Ferrara. We lose a decent man, full of passion and vision who, together with his partners, despite a thousand difficulties, contributed to the cause of the Rosanero team, keeping the spirit of belonging high. We all recognize his daily commitment and love for our colors. To his family, I extend the condolences and closeness of the Municipal Administration.»