Sports icon Guido Zorzi dies: messages of condolence

The world of Veneto rugby is mourning the death of Guido Zorzi , a historic and beloved figure in the local sports scene. Third line of great value, he left an indelible mark with his performances in Petrarca and Rovigo, becoming over time a point of reference also as a team manager. His dedication and his spirit have touched players, fans and the entire community, who today remember him with affection and emotion.

Sports in mourning, former champion Guido Zorzi has died

The world of rugby is mourning the loss of Guido Zorzi, struck down by cancer at just 60 years old . A former athlete of Petrarca and Rugby Rovigo, where he played with great determination, in recent years he was a popular team manager of Petrarca Rugby.

During the four seasons spent in Rovigo, from 1996/97 to 1999/2000, he collected 60 appearances and scored 20 tries, becoming an important figure for the team. His memory lives on both in Rovigo and in Padova, where he left an indelible mark among former teammates and long-time friends, who supported him until his final moments.

The news of his passing arrived on Monday, June 30. The funeral ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 3 at 10:00 in the Church of Santa Giustina in Padua.

Massimo Bitonci, former mayor of Padua, wanted to remember Guido Zorzi with a post on social media. He defined Zorzi's passing as a great loss not only for Petrarca, but for the entire world of rugby, underlining how people like him have accompanied generations of young people in their growth through sport. He concluded by saying that this is truly painful news .

“ I have known him for many years, Guido, we had an excellent relationship . A cordial and open person. A great player in the history of Petrarca has passed away, a great friend who was loved by everyone”.

As reported by Padova Today , Arturo Lorenzoni, a politician and rugby fan, also appeared deeply shocked during a telephone conversation. He recalled that he and Zorzi had played rugby together since they were eleven years old and expressed difficulty believing his death, calling it news that leaves great dismay.

“ I remember him always available and passionate about what he did . His family had an important company but he always and only wanted to be on a rugby field, and that's how I will remember him”.