Mourning the Loss of Davide Tizzano: A Champion of Italian Sport

On December 29, 2025, Davide Tizzano, the president of the Italian Rowing Federation and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, passed away at the age of 57. His death has prompted widespread mourning within the Italian sports community, reflecting on his significant contributions both as an athlete and a sports administrator.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

Davide Tizzano was celebrated for his achievements in rowing, winning gold medals at the 1988 Seoul and 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Following his competitive career, he transitioned into sports management, serving as president of the Italian Rowing Federation from 2025 until his untimely death. He was also involved with the International Committee of the Mediterranean Games and held various leadership roles within the Italian sports community, including being the head of the Olympic rowing team during the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

The mayor of Naples, Gaetano Manfredi, expressed profound sorrow over Tizzano's passing, stating, "We are not only losing a great champion, but a man who embodied the noblest values of sport: sacrifice, loyalty, and the ability to overcome any obstacle." Sports Councillor Emanuela Ferrante highlighted Tizzano's dedication to sport as a means of social growth, noting that "his determination and smile will remain etched in the memories of those who had the honor of knowing him." Luciano Buonfiglio, President of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), remarked on Tizzano's legacy as a champion and a first-rate sports manager, extending condolences to his family and the Italian rowing movement.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

While the responses to Tizzano's death have largely been positive, there are voices within the sports community that emphasize the need for continued support and development of sports programs in Italy, reflecting on the challenges that remain in the wake of losing such a prominent figure.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

The Italian sports community has come together to honor Tizzano's memory, with tributes pouring in from various sectors, including fencing, where the President of the Italian Fencing Federation, Luigi Mazzone, acknowledged Tizzano's influence and presence at the Bruno Zauli Olympic Training Center.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

Tizzano's funeral is scheduled for December 30, 2025, at the Basilica of Capodimonte in Naples. The presentation of Naples as the European Capital of Sport will also be dedicated to him, underscoring his lasting impact on the city and its sporting legacy.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

• “The passing of Davide Tizzano leaves an unfillable void in the heart of our city.” — Gaetano Manfredi, Mayor of Naples

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

• “His determination and smile will remain etched in the memories of those who had the honor of knowing him and those who, watching his exploits, learned to dream big.” — Emanuela Ferrante, Sports Councillor

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.

Davide Tizzano's legacy as a champion and leader in Italian sports will be remembered as the community reflects on his contributions and the values he represented.

Davide Tizzano, Olympic champion and president of the Italian Rowing Federation, has died.