Without Giannelli: Italy's World Champion with Mattarella and Meloni

World champions for women, world champions for men – that deserves a celebration. Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni certainly thought so too, as they ceremoniously welcomed the volleyball heroes. Only the captain was missing.

08 October 2025

From: fop

First at the Quirinal Palace with Head of State Sergio Mattarella, then on to the Palazzo Chigi to meet Italy's highest-ranking politician: The volleyball aces had a packed schedule in Rome on Wednesday. They were courted everywhere. And it was all broadcast live on state television by Rai2.

"Welcome home," said Mattarella. "Please wear these medals with pride. You were simply amazing. Thank you for the many emotions you gave us." These words were heard by Italy's volleyball officials, the successful coaches Julia Velasco and Ferdinando De Giorgi, and a large portion of the two world champion teams.

Giannelli with Perugia in Japan

However, the men's team was missing captain Simone Giannelli. The 29-year-old South Tyrolean, like his national teammate Roberto Russo, had to cancel their brief visit to Rome. They have been on tour in Asia with their club Perugia since the beginning of the week. Giannelli and his teammates are currently playing their final test matches in Japan ahead of the new Serie A season.