Cagliari, Sardinia – Luigi Riva, known as “Rombo di Tuono” (the sound of thunder) and Italy’s all-time top scorer for the men’s national team, has died. He was 79 years old.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed Riva’s death on Monday, following an outpouring of tributes to the player who scored 35 goals in 42 games for Italy and earned his nickname for his powerful shot.
FIGC president Gabriele Gravina said: “I am upset and deeply saddened. Italian football is in mourning as a true national hero has left us.” “Gigi Riva was a great person and the embodiment of an extraordinary footballer. His pride, integrity and sense of fairness united generations.
“Thanks to him (as team manager) we won the European Championship in 1968 and the World Cup in 2006.”
Riva collapsed at home on Sunday and was taken to the heart ward of Blotz Hospital, and Cagliari Hospital issued a statement on Monday night saying his condition had improved. However, he died shortly thereafter.
Riva spent almost his entire career at Cagliari after joining the Sardinian team as a teenager, turning down several big-money offers from other clubs. Especially when he was at the top and Cagliari were struggling.
He helped Cagliari win their only Serie A title in 1970 and remains the club’s record scorer, scoring 205 goals in 374 games.
Luigi Riva, Italy’s all-time leading scorer, seen in this undated file photo, has died. The Italian Football Federation confirmed the news and tributes to Riva began pouring in. Riva remains Italy’s top scorer, scoring 35 goals in 42 appearances. As a player, he helped the Azzurri win the European Championship in 1968 and finished runners-up at the World Cup two years later. He also coached the national team from 1990 to 2013, helping Italy win their fourth world title. 2006 Cup. Credit: AP/LAPRESSE
Several Italian clubs posted messages of condolence on social media. Cagliari simply wrote “Forever GIGI RIVA” above a large photo of the player. She also added black ribbons to her social media profiles.
As a player, he helped the Azzurri win the European Championship in 1968 and finish runner-up at the World Cup two years later.
He also coached the national team from 1990 to 2013, and helped Italy win their fourth World Cup in 2006.
This weekend, in memory of Riva, a minute’s silence will be held before every soccer match in Italy, and the second half of the Italian Super Cup final in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A minute’s silence was observed before the ceremony. Arabia on Monday.