The Italy squad displayed an extraordinary gesture of generosity for the Stefano Borgonovo Foundation following their friendly match against Germany, when the starting XI donated their Azzurri shirts to raise money for the charity.
Almost three years after the former Italy, AC Milan and Fiorentina forward succumbed to Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease, the shirts were donated as a gesture of support for the charity, set up by Borgonovo after he announced he was suffering from the condition in 2008.
Stefano's widow Chantal was present at the friendly match at the invitation of the President of the Italian Football Association (FIGC) Carlo Tavecchio, and was presented with the shirts after the game.
"I was speechless when I got the jerseys," Chantal Borganovo said after receiving the shirts. "I am more than grateful and extremely touched. Their gesture of solidarity means so much to me and the Foundation. And I am sure it would also have meant a great deal to my husband. I remember that Stefano was the proudest person on earth when he wore the jersey of the Squadra Azzurra. That's the dream of every Italian who plays football."
The shirts, which include those belonging to Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon and AC Milan skipper Riccardo Montolivo, will be auctioned off throughout April to generate money for the foundation and continue the fight against ALS through medical research.
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