To expand its international footprint, Serie A is eyeing India as a potential venue for the prestigious Italian Super Cup. Michele Ciccarese, the league’s commercial and marketing director, has revealed this exciting possibility, aiming to captivate a wider global audience for the tournament.
In a thrilling showdown, the Italian Super Cup took centre stage in Saudi Arabia this January, featuring a fierce clash between AC Milan and Inter Milan. The stakes were high as the champions of Serie A faced off against the Coppa Italia runners-up. In a nail-biting finish, AC Milan emerged victorious with a 3-2 triumph, securing the prestigious trophy for the eighth time in their history.
In a recent press conference, Ciccarese addressed the exciting possibility of India hosting the Super Cup, stating that it perfectly aligns with the league’s strategic vision. The anticipation builds as fans and officials consider such a move’s implications.
“Our mission is to take our international trophy, such as the Super Cup, across the globe. The goal is straightforward: to connect with a broader audience and showcase the finest aspects of that culture,” Ciccarese stated at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit.
“That’s precisely the game plan moving forward, as we look to bring the action right here to India!”
India is boldly bidding to host the 2036 Olympics, aiming to establish itself as a powerhouse in the world of sports.
Ciccarese has put forth an intriguing proposition, highlighting how the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket competition could be a powerful platform to elevate the nation’s profile. He believes this could spotlight the remarkable accomplishments across various sports, much like the “Made in Italy” initiative has done for its domain.
“In a bold move, the initiative ‘Made in Italy’ has taken centre stage as it collaborates with all 20 Serie A clubs. Each team is set to showcase one of their standout players, aiming to elevate not just the city but also the clubs, the surrounding territory, and the entire production chain linked to that club,” he stated.
“What we’re proposing is a strategic move, possibly even a cross-market activation with the IPL, aimed at boosting grassroots development. This initiative is crucial for establishing a strong presence in Indian football at the 2036 Olympics.”