SALERNO – Celeste Bucciarelli, a long-time Salernitana fan, known to all as simply “mamma Celeste”, passed away today at the age of 85: an entire life lived with the Granata in her heart, always on the front line, always present, from the Vestuti curves to the Arechi stadium.
An iconic figure and symbol of female passion, Celeste was among the founders of the club “Le Fedelissime” in 1985, one of the first groups of female fans in Italy. With other enthusiasts, she carried forward an idea of genuine, tireless support, made of visceral love for the team of her city. A support without borders, without gender, made of travel, sacrifices and countless emotions.
A famous photograph portrays her clinging to the fence of the Venice stadium, from behind, while wearing the garnet jersey she watches the penalties with trepidation. It is just one of the many shots that tell of a football faith lived with the heart. “Salernitana is feminine”, Celeste loved to repeat, because for her the team was like a daughter: strong, passionate, never tamed.
“Forty years of Fedelissime, many more years of genuine passion that she brought around the country together with her 'children' of the Curva: Celeste Bucciarelli has entered the infinite granata, up there somewhere”, we read in the touching message released today by the club. Just a few weeks ago, despite her age and ailments, Celeste returned to the Arechi to support her Salernitana. With her smile, her energy and even her critical voice when necessary, she has embodied the spirit of a unique fan base for decades.
The mayor of Salerno, Vincenzo Napoli, remembered the historic supporter like this: “An example for many generations of fans. The city today loses a symbolic figure of our football”. Celeste Bucciarelli's funeral will be held tomorrow, at 12:XNUMX, in the church of San Demetrio. Salerno is preparing to say a final farewell to the woman who made cheering a matter of love.
Article published on March 29, 2025 - 16pm
