Luigi Riva, Italy’s all-time leading goalscorer and a champion of the World Cup, passes away at the age of 79.

Italy’s footballing legend, Luigi ‘Gigi’ Riva, has tragically passed away at the age of 79. Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of all time, Riva suffered a heart attack over the weekend and was rushed to the hospital.

During his illustrious career, Riva scored an impressive 35 goals in 42 appearances for the Italian national team between 1965 and 1974. His contributions were instrumental in Italy’s triumph at the 1968 European Championship and their journey to the 1970 World Cup final.

Even after retiring from playing, Riva continued to serve Italian football as part of the technical staff for the national team. He was present when Italy clinched their fourth World Cup victory in 2006.

Gabriele Gravina, the president of the Italian Football Federation, expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of a true national hero. He described Riva as a remarkable footballer and a great man. Gravina credited Riva for Italy’s successes in the 1968 European Championship and the 2006 World Cup, emphasizing the impact he had on the team.

Affectionately known as the ‘Roar of Thunder’, Riva spent the majority of his club career at Cagliari, where he became renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring abilities. He netted an impressive 207 goals for the Islanders, playing a pivotal role in their promotion to the top-flight in 1964 and their historic Serie A title win in 1970. Such was his influence and legacy at Cagliari that the club retired his iconic No. 11 jersey in 2005.

In a heartfelt tribute, Cagliari posted on their official platform, declaring “Forever GIGI RIVA.” The sentiment echoed the feelings of football fans across Italy and beyond, as they mourned the loss of a true sporting icon.