De Laurentiis: Napoli’s Golden Collar Triumph and the Rebirth of a Footballing Dynasty

FolioPitch.com – 13 October 2026 | Aurelio De Laurentiis, the charismatic president of Napoli, has declared that the club has successfully reclaimed the hearts of a generation, stating emphatically that “De Laurentiis We ve brought millions of children back to supporting Napoli.” His remarks came after the Partenopei were honoured with the Collare d’Oro al Merito Sportivo, Italy’s highest sporting accolade, at a prestigious ceremony held at the Giulio Onesti Olympic Preparation Centre in Rome on Monday morning. The award, presented by CONI, recognises over two decades of remarkable growth and resilience under De Laurentiis’s stewardship, a journey that began in 2004 when he took over a club in financial ruin and rebuilt it from the depths of Serie C.

The significance of the honour was not lost on De Laurentiis, who collected the award in person. He reflected on the transformation of Napoli from a bankrupt entity to a competitive force in Italian and European football. Under his leadership, the club has secured two Scudetti, in 2023 and 2025, and has become a regular participant in European competitions. The Collare d’Oro serves as a testament to the club’s resurgence and its enduring impact on the sporting landscape. “This is an award for a club that has kept going for 100 years,” De Laurentiis remarked, highlighting the centenary celebrations that have marked this season.

In a passionate address, De Laurentiis emphasised the social and cultural significance of Napoli’s revival. He noted that when he arrived in Naples, many children were drawn to supporting other teams, but that narrative has dramatically shifted. “De Laurentiis We ve brought millions of children back to supporting Napoli,” he reiterated, underscoring the club’s role in fostering a new generation of fans. He drew a poetic parallel between the team’s colours and the natural beauty of Naples, stating that the azure blue mirrors the sea, the sky, and the national team, creating a deep sense of identity and pride.

Beyond the accolades, De Laurentiis, a film producer by trade, revealed that he is working on a cinematic tribute to mark Napoli’s centenary. The film, currently in post-production, is titled “100 Years of Passion” and aims to capture the essence of Naples and its footballing heritage. “In Naples, anything is possible,” he said, drawing historical parallels to the 18th century when the city was considered the queen of Europe. He expressed optimism that the city and its club are climbing back to prominence, a sentiment echoed by the fans who have witnessed the club’s meteoric rise.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for De Laurentiis to address the team’s current campaign under coach Massimiliano Allegri. Despite a slow start to the season, the president offered his full support to Allegri, quelling rumours of discontent. He also touched upon ongoing negotiations regarding Scott McTominay’s contract, indicating that talks are progressing. These comments come at a crucial time as Napoli aim to build on their recent successes and maintain their competitive edge both domestically and in Europe.

The award and De Laurentiis’s words resonate deeply with the Napoli faithful, who have endured years of uncertainty before the current era of prosperity. The club’s journey from bankruptcy to glory is a story of resilience, vision, and unwavering passion. As Napoli celebrates its 100th anniversary, the focus is not only on past achievements but also on the future. De Laurentiis’s commitment to bringing back millions of children to support Napoli is a testament to his long-term vision for the club. “De Laurentiis We ve brought millions of children back to supporting Napoli,” he said once more, a phrase that encapsulates the profound impact of his presidency.

The Collare d’Oro al Merito Sportivo is more than just a trophy; it symbolises the recognition of Napoli’s contribution to Italian sport. The club’s story serves as an inspiration for other teams and communities, demonstrating that with determination and strategic leadership, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. As Napoli continues to write its history, the president’s words echo as a promise to future generations: the azure colours will always shine brightly, both on the pitch and in the hearts of millions.

In conclusion, Aurelio De Laurentiis’s receipt of the Collare d’Oro is a fitting tribute to a remarkable turnaround. His assertion that “De Laurentiis We ve brought millions of children back to supporting Napoli” is not merely a boast but a reflection of a cultural shift. Napoli’s journey from the ashes of bankruptcy to the pinnacle of Italian football is a saga of passion, resilience, and strategic brilliance. As the club embarks on its next century, the legacy of De Laurentiis’s leadership will undoubtedly continue to inspire fans, young and old, to don the azure shirt with pride.