A New Era for Italian Football
Italian football is witnessing a historic transformation as Claudia Rizzo, aged just 23, takes the helm at Serie C club Ternana Calcio. In September, the young entrepreneur was appointed president, shattering a century-old tradition to become the first woman in the club's hundred-year history to hold this prestigious role. Her appointment marks a significant shift in a sport long dominated by men.
Blending Business, Family and Passion
Rizzo's journey to the president's office is intertwined with her family's business ventures. Born in Rome to Gian Luigi Rizzo and Laura Melis, she is part of a family well-established in Italian business. Her father leads the Villa Claudia group, a private healthcare company. The family's interests, which began in healthcare, have since expanded into agriculture and now sport.
"I started out as a small entrepreneur in the agricultural sector with my family, in Noto, Sicily," Rizzo explains. She also gained experience working in the family's medical clinics. However, her passion for football was a constant. "Football has always been a real passion of mine as a fan. Then this opportunity came along, thanks to my family, and I decided to take it."
A Vision for Terni: Stadium and Clinic Project
The acquisition of Ternana is part of a much larger, ambitious vision for the city of Terni. The Villa Claudia group is spearheading a combined investment worth approximately €80 million (£70.2 million). This project involves the joint construction of a new Liberati Stadium and an adjacent private clinic, designed to create a modern hub for sport and healthcare.
Despite facing bureaucratic, political, and financial hurdles, the project remains central to the group's long-term plan. For Rizzo, it's about more than just infrastructure. "Ternana is more than a football team," she states. "It's part of the city’s identity, and we want to give it stability and future strength."
Leading with Youth and a Fresh Perspective
Despite her family's prominent role in the acquisition, Claudia Rizzo is determined to establish her own identity and authority. "I’m learning how to manage the club almost fully," she says, emphasising her commitment. "It’s important for me to show that I’m not just here because of my family. I’m here to work, to learn, and to earn respect."
She believes her youth is a distinct advantage. "I see youth as a strength. It allows you to bring fresh ideas and a modern approach." Her leadership style is hands-on and personal. She commutes daily between Rome and Terni, actively bonding with the local community. "A president shouldn’t be distant. The players must feel that there’s support and stability behind them," Rizzo notes.
Navigating Challenges and Building a Legacy
Rizzo enters Italian football during a turbulent period for the lower leagues, which are often shaken by financial and judicial troubles. She acknowledges these challenges but remains focused on her club's integrity. "Football is a business, and like in any business there can be problems. The only thing you can do is focus on your own work... We want to run things cleanly and transparently."
Her vision for Ternana's future is built on a solid foundation, with a strong emphasis on the academy. "The academy is our future: young players need guidance, support, and the right environment to grow." While she is superstitious about stating specific targets, her ambition is clear: to build a bridge between generations and revive the club's identity.
The Future is Female
Claudia Rizzo's story is fundamentally about breaking barriers. "There are still some preconceptions because football has long been a man’s world," she admits. "But I think things are changing. Women can bring a different point of view, an added value even in this field."
Her final message is one of empowerment and change. "The key is to send a clear message: football isn’t just for men. You don’t have to be a man to run a club or work in football management. The future is female, and little by little football will welcome more women who can give the game fresh energy and a positive push forward."
