Okay, so the biggest name in Italian football right now isn’t at San Siro. The story of Ronaldinho in Ravenna has been spreading since last month, and this weekend it finally lands in a town most people know for mosaics, not match tickets.
I’ll be honest: I’m not a football person. But when a story pulls reporters from Reuters, AP and AFP to a Serie C stadium in Romagna, even I pay attention. And when it happens a short drive from the Adriatic beaches I love, I can’t resist writing about it. Maybe it’s a nice story for you as well.
So what is Ronaldinho doing in Ravenna?
Ravenna FC signed the Brazilian star, who is now 46. According to il Resto del Carlino, his last official match was eleven years ago. The plan is a comeback in this Sunday’s derby against Forlì, with kick-off at 17:00 and a Sky broadcast. The paper says he’ll probably start and play part of the first half, depending on his energy. The club itself is more cautious: in its official schedule, he’s simply “available” to coach Andrea Mandorlini. So if you’re hoping to see him, keep your expectations flexible. Football loves a plot twist. If you watch the Storys on his Instagram, as of Saturday afternoon, he’s training with the team.
The paper also reports that he’s aiming for his 300th career goal in a Ravenna shirt. Bold. I kind of love it.
Where is Ronaldinho staying?
As officially known, Ronaldinho is staying for four days at the Hotel Bolina in Milano Marittima, the pine-shaded beach resort in Cervia, only a quick drive from Ravenna. Honestly, it’s a smart pick. In November the resort is calm and the sea is moody. That’s a very different mood from August, and I’d argue a better one if you like space and sea air.
Tickets: how to get in (and what it costs)
The Stadio Benelli is small, and a temporary stand has been added to fit about 1,800 more fans. According to the Carlino, the away section is almost sold out, but Tribuna R10 still had seats: €90 for a standard ticket and €150 for the “gold” version with hospitality. Those are big prices for Serie C, but then again it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of Sunday. Check the Ravenna FC channels for current availability, because this kind of thing sells out fast.
The club has also launched a Ronaldinho x Ravenna FC collection by Cipriani, a No. 10 shirt in Ravenna colors. Whether you wear it is up to you. I’d probably buy the cap.
Make a weekend of it on the Romagna Riviera
If you’re coming for Ronaldinho in Ravenna, don’t only see the stadium. The city is home to Byzantine mosaics that are part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing. Spend the morning there and save the football for the afternoon.
Arriving from further away? My guide to the Bologna airport express bus explains the easiest way in from the nearest big airport. Coming down the coast, I wrote about the first-class train from Rimini to Bologna, which is surprisingly civilised. If you have time afterwards, my blog about Rimini has beach tips for the other end of the Riviera. And if you’re a sweet-tooth like me, the tiramisu at Gioelia in Imola is a good reason to detour. More ideas for the region are in the Emilia-Romagna section.
Will the story still be buzzing next week? Probably not. But for now, Ravenna has its moment. And I think it’s quite fun to watch, if your interested in football. Let’s see, how many goals he’s kicking – what’s your bet? Comment below!
Ronaldinho in Ravenna: Your Questions Answered
Why is Ronaldinho in Ravenna?
He has signed with Ravenna FC, a Serie C club, and is expected to make a comeback in the derby against Forlì. According to il Resto del Carlino, his last official match was eleven years ago. The club hasn’t confirmed whether he’ll play, only that he is available to the coach.
When is Ronaldinho’s first match for Ravenna?
Sunday, 15 November, at the Stadio Benelli in Ravenna against Forlì. Il Resto del Carlino reports a 17:00 kick-off with a Sky broadcast. Check the club’s official channels for last-minute changes.
Where is Ronaldinho staying in Italy?
At the Hotel Bolina in Milano Marittima, for four days, according to il Resto del Carlino. Milano Marittima is part of Cervia, on the Adriatic coast, and only a short drive from Ravenna.
How much are tickets for Ravenna vs Forlì?
Il Resto del Carlino reported Tribuna R10 tickets at €90 for standard seats and €150 for gold hospitality. The away section was almost sold out at the time of reporting. Availability changes quickly, so check the club before you travel.
Is Ravenna worth visiting outside of football?
Yes. The city is known for its early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing. You can easily combine a morning of sightseeing with an afternoon at the stadium or a trip to the beach.
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