Lotito: "A Team Must Be Built On Solid Foundations. It’s Not The Same As Buying A Defunct Club And Giving It A New Name. Keeping Lazio Intact Was Crucial. We Must Learn From Past Experiences And Reclaim Their Values."

S.S. Lazio hosted a special evening at Casina di Macchia Madama in Rome to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the club’s historic 1999–2000 Serie A title. The event drew current squad members, club legends, and other prominent figures who played key roles during that championship season, marking a nostalgic and emotional night for the Biancoceleste family.

Among those in attendance was President Claudio Lotito, who used the occasion not only to pay tribute to the past but also to reflect on the evolution and future of the club. Speaking to reporters during the event, Lotito emphasized the importance of honoring Lazio's history as a foundation for future success.

“It’s essential to remember the achievement of 25 years ago,” Lotito said. “There is no future without a past. We must learn from past experiences and reclaim their values. What we built then has become a lasting path. Today, Lazio are structurally and organizationally strong. Times have changed, and management is now more restricted and regulated, which makes creativity difficult, but we’ve adapted.”

When asked about Lazio’s hopes of finishing in the top four, Lotito expressed optimism:

“Securing fourth place would crown the effort of everyone involved—from the players to the staff and management. We believe that our organizational model, team unity, and consistent planning can lead to significant results.”

He likened Lazio’s structure to a well-conducted orchestra: “We have a quality conductor, a cohesive ensemble, and now we need to maintain competitive spirit to deliver results.”

Reflecting on Lazio’s inconsistent presence in the league’s upper echelon, Lotito said:

“A team must be built on solid foundations. When I took over, the situation was dire. I prevented the club from going bankrupt, preserving its heritage. It’s not the same as buying a defunct club and giving it a new name. Keeping Lazio intact was crucial.”

Lotito highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure and development:

“Lazio today looks toward the future. We are constructing an Academy, upgrading our training facilities, and we’ve submitted plans for a new stadium. We don’t sell dreams—we deliver results. These investments are proof that Lazio is built to last.”

He emphasized the importance of creating long-term value over short-lived glory:

“Many clubs have won but lack a foundation. I’d rather build something enduring than rely on a fleeting success tied to one individual. Our trophies—three Super Cups and three Coppa Italias—came through structure and determination, not luck.”

Lotito dismissed doubts about current coach Marco Baroni, affirming the club’s commitment to him:

“Baroni has a multi-year deal. When we brought him in, people were marching against us, claiming we’d be relegated. Now look where we are. I believe in building step by step. In my 21 years, I turned a debt-ridden club into one with €300 million in real estate assets.”

He continued, “I often hear ‘Lotito, spend more,’ but critics don’t understand the system. I’ve built a club that stands on its own, responsibly and sustainably. Lazio’s future lies not in names but in quality and competence.”

Lotito concluded by emphasizing that the club is no longer fragile:

“We are not a shooting star—we’re a constant presence. The affection of the fans drives us forward, and our duty is to give back with results, growth, and continuity.”