The Conclusion of the Great Pro River? Volpi Exits, Players Invited to Seek New Clubs
Captured during a match featuring Pro Recco last season, Photo: Pro Recco Waterpolo/Facebook
With the onset of the new water polo season this fall, it appears that everything is about to change…
Pro Recco, the premier water polo club globally, boasting 11 European championships and nine in the 21st century, finds itself in an unprecedented crisis, perhaps the most daunting in its history.
After years of financial backing, local businessman Gabriele Volpi, a key figure associated with the club, along with Orlean Invest, has ceased support, plunging the Genoa-based team into an existential predicament nearing liquidation.
According to “Total Waterpolo,” Pro Recco has opted not to pursue its wild card for the Champions League, aiming to steer clear of a €25,000 fee to the European Water Sports Federation (previously LEN), now needing to qualify for the elite tournament.
The seriousness of the situation is underscored by the notification given to players that they are free to seek new clubs…
While some, like Francesca di Fulvija, have pledged to stay, it remains uncertain how many will accept significant salary cuts. Reports suggest that star player Alvaro Granodos, who just joined Pro Recco, may depart Liguria for the ranks of current European champions Ferencvaros.
Rumor has it that Pro Recco intends to focus on younger talent, but first, they’ll require fresh ownership and investors willing to inject funds into a financially challenging venture. After experiencing years of deficits, Volpi has opted to step down at the end of the season.
President Mauricio Felugo has assured that Pro Recco will compete in the Italian championship, but participation in the Champions League is unattainable without new ownership.
For many years, this team, known as the “water polo galacticos,” faces the possibility of becoming yet another giant of the sport overwhelmed by financial turmoil.
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