Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has been named the winner of the fifth edition of the "Un Cuore da Leone" award, beating a field of major Italian sporting figures in a public vote. The prize is promoted within the Stelle nello Sport project to honour the memory of Gian Luigi Corti, a historic figure in Italian sports journalism and sporting management.
The Giallorossi boss took first place after a vote conducted by a broad and qualified jury presided over by Filippo Grassia and made up of leading names in national sports journalism. Gasperini finished ahead of champions such as Arianna Fontana, Gregorio Paltrinieri, Ambra Sabatini and Nicolò Martinenghi. The jury recognised his dedication, courage, tactical vision and ability to launch young talents, qualities that have marked his career at Genoa, Bergamo and now on the Roma bench.
The award, a special work of art created by painter Nicola Perucca, will be presented on Sunday 8 November at the Porto Antico in Genoa, during the traditional Charity Event in support of the Fondazione Gigi Ghirotti. It will be a return to the city where Gasperini coached Genoa on two spells, from 2006 to 2010 and from 2013 to 2016, writing historic pages in the club's story.
Michele Corti, president of Stelle nello Sport, said: "Gian Piero Gasperini is not just a coach, he is the architect of a football dream that has become reality. His 'non mollare mai' is reflected in an offensive, fearless style of play that does not give up an inch. He is the emblem of the culture of hard work and of a sport lived with the constant desire to throw the heart beyond the obstacle." The recognition further underlines the standing of Gasperini in international football as he leads Roma through the new campaign, which combines Serie A and the Champions League.
Testo Originale / Source Text
“Un prestigioso ed ennesimo riconoscimento va ad arricchire la carriera di Gian Piero Gasperini. L’attuale allenatore della Roma si è infatti aggiudicato la quinta edizione del Premio “Un Cuore da Leone”, l’iniziativa promossa nell’ambito del progetto Stelle nello Sport per onorare la memoria di…”
Read the full article in Italian at Roma News.