Giorgio Napolitano, former President of the Republic of Italy, has died at the age of 98 in Rome. The condition of the two-time President of Italy (the first-ever person to be re-elected for a second term), who was under observation at a clinic in Rome, quickly deteriorated recently. In 2006, just a few weeks after his election win, he was in attendance in Berlin to watch the World Cup final victory over France.

“The football world is in great mourning following the death of Giorgio Napolitano," declared FIGC President, Gabriele Gravina, "due to his esteemed and dutiful service to the country. He was a huge supporter of the Azzurri and displayed great values, sharing his passion and emotions with every Italian in many different occasions. For everyone, he will forever remain the World Champion of Presidents."

To honour and remember Napolitano, the FIGC has announced a minute's silence will be held before every game this weekend.