Lotito: "Sarri Is The Ideal Figure For This Journey. We Share A Common Goal: To Train Both The Athlete And The Person. We Want To Demonstrate That Football Is Driven By Ideas And Values, Not Just Economics."

Yesterday morning, at the historic Palazzo Sanizi in Rieti, Lazio officially presented the much-anticipated “Lazio Academy Project.” The initiative aims to expand the club’s presence throughout the region and nurture a new generation of talent—both on and off the pitch.

During the presentation, Lazio President Claudio Lotito outlined a vision that goes beyond football. “Without the past there is no future,” Lotito emphasized, invoking the idea that history is not just a lesson, but a guide for growth. “We want to train young people not only physically, but also spiritually. Values must be exported to areas where unfortunately a materialistic aspect prevails.”

The new academy, currently under construction in Rome, will feature seven football fields, a guesthouse, a school, and even a church. According to Lotito, the project is designed to foster both athletic and personal development. “It’s not just about producing players for Serie A,” he noted. “We are focused on shaping responsible citizens—young men who understand team spirit and respect the rules. Those are the qualities that will shape the future, both for Lazio and for the wider community.”

Lotito also addressed the return of Maurizio Sarri, underlining the coach’s ability to recognize and nurture potential where others might not. “Sarri is the ideal figure for this journey. He has the experience and vision to develop young talent at every level,” Lotito explained. “We share a common goal: to train both the athlete and the person.”

He clarified the circumstances surrounding Sarri’s previous departure, emphasizing that the decision was never about performance, but rather the conditions within the team at that time. “The Commander is back to guide the ship. Together, we want to demonstrate that football is driven by ideas and values, not just economics.”

Looking ahead, Lotito reaffirmed Lazio’s ambitions remain unchanged. “Our objectives are the same as last season. In the early part of the championship, we showed what we’re capable of.” He also highlighted the club’s ongoing commitment to developing both youth and women’s football. “We have potential that goes beyond the first team—our Primavera and women’s programs will play a crucial role in supporting the region’s growth. In areas like Rieti, where there isn’t a strong women’s team, we’re ready to help fill that gap.”

Finally, Lotito touched on the importance of accountability at all levels of football management, drawing a distinction between his personal investment in Lazio and broader organizational responsibilities. “If things don’t work, I’m the one who answers to the fans. Others receive salaries and should be accountable to the community.”