The Enciclopedia Italiana Treccani is honoring Gigi Riva, known as “the thunderbolt,” with a new volume in its Miti Italiani series. The book explores both the footballer’s celebrated career and the personal experiences that helped make him a national symbol.
Born in Leggiuno, near Varese, on November 7, 1944, and deceased in Cagliari on January 22, 2024, Luigi Riva became one of Italy’s most renowned forwards. Famous for his heading ability and powerful left foot, he scored goals in a variety of ways. Sports journalist Gianni Brera gave him the nickname “rombo di tuono” to describe his attacking force.
Treccani presents Riva’s story as more than a record of sporting success. Carlo Maria Ossola, president of the Institute of the Italian Encyclopedia Treccani, highlights the player’s enduring loyalty to Cagliari, which he maintained despite offers from clubs on the Italian mainland. That attachment, according to Ossola, was central to the affection he inspired.
Curated by Giorgio Pitzianti, the volume follows two connected portraits: Riva as a popular hero and symbol of Sardinian revival, and Riva as a reserved man shaped by family bereavements, injuries and a deliberate distance from publicity. He arrived in Sardinia at the age of 19 and became the central figure in Cagliari’s growth, culminating in the club’s historic 1970 league title.
The account also examines the relationship between Riva and coach Manlio Scopigno, presenting their partnership as a key element of Cagliari’s achievement. Alongside the championship campaign, the book covers Riva’s Italy career, including the 1968 European Championship and the 1970 World Cup, as well as his record of 35 goals in 42 matches and the injuries that affected his career.
Featuring an extensive collection of images, the volume portrays both the charismatic player who carried teams forward and the vulnerable, private individual who found in Sardinia the setting best suited to his way of life.
The book will be presented on November 7 at 8:30 p.m. at the Teatro Lirico in Cagliari, the date on which Riva would have turned 82. Authors and members of the 1970 championship-winning team will take part in an evening of readings, testimonies and live music by Moses Concas, Chiara Effe & Band and Piero Marras. An exhibition will also be installed in the theatre foyer. The event is sold out and is being held in collaboration with Cagliari Calcio, with L’Unione Sarda as media partner and the support of the Municipality of Cagliari and the Region.
Sources: ANSA Cultura. ANSA Cultura.