Lazio president Claudio Lotito has become the new owner of Reggina, a club currently competing in Serie D, the fourth tier of Italian football. Lotito was presented as the new owner at a press conference held at the Stadio Granillo on Thursday evening, attended by the mayor of Reggio Calabria, Francesco Cannizzaro. Cannizzaro presented Lotito with a Reggina scarf, expressing hope that he would lead the club to success.
Lotito stated his intention to build a “serious project” with “pride and belonging” at Reggina, drawing on his experience with other clubs, including Salernitana. He emphasized the importance of a solid structure and a passionate fanbase, aiming to create a team that can compete for promotion. He expressed a desire to build a team that is not merely making up the numbers but one that can challenge for the league title.
The businessman addressed the issue of multi-club ownership, a topic of ongoing debate in Italian football. Lotito argued that the current regulations have negatively impacted Italian football, diminishing the value of local clubs. He pointed to his own experience with multi-ownership as a beneficial model, citing economic, territorial, and youth development advantages. He believes the current rules are “mad” and hinder the growth of clubs.
When questioned about the possibility of selling Lazio, Lotito responded that anything could happen within the next twelve months, stating “the ways of the Lord are infinite.” He also commented on recent statements made by Italian Olympic Committee president Giovanni Malagò regarding multi-club ownership, suggesting that a discussion on the topic is unlikely in the near future. Lotito reaffirmed his commitment to achieving results with Reggina, promising a guaranteed outcome. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of Lotito’s involvement in Italian football beyond his long-standing role at Lazio.
