Italy football legend Roberto Baggio was robbed at gunpoint and subsequently hospitalized during his country’s Euro 2024 match against Spain at his residence.
At approximately 10:00 PM local time on Thursday evening, at least five armed robbers invaded Baggio’s villa in Altavilla Vicentina, near Vicenza, as reported by Italian media outlet Corriere della Sera.
Reports indicate that Baggio confronted the thieves, resulting in him being struck on the head with a gun before the assailants locked him and his family, including his wife Andreina and their three children, in a room. The robbers proceeded to steal jewelry, watches, and cash during the 40-minute ordeal.
After the robbers departed, Baggio managed to break down the door and alert the authorities. He was subsequently taken to Arzignano hospital, where he received treatment for a head wound requiring stitches. Fortunately, his family members were unharmed but shaken by the traumatic incident.
In a statement relayed by his agent Vittorio Petrone to Italian news agency Ansa, Baggio expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support: “My family and I would like to thank everyone for the great affection we’ve received. Really thank you. In such circumstances, anything can happen and fortunately the violence I suffered only caused me to have a few stitches, bruises and a lot of fear. Now all that remains is to overcome the fear.”
Baggio, 57, enjoyed a storied football career, representing Italy in 56 matches and scoring 27 goals. He notably played pivotal roles in Italy’s campaigns at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, the latter culminating in a memorable but ultimately unsuccessful final against Brazil where Baggio missed a crucial penalty.
Known as ‘The Divine Ponytail’ due to his distinctive hairstyle, Baggio’s club career spanned illustrious spells with Fiorentina, Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan. His achievements included two Serie A titles and the 1993 UEFA Cup with Juventus.
Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Italy in the Euro 2024 match that Baggio was watching at the time of the robbery, with a Riccardo Calafiori own goal proving decisive in the second half.
