Stadio Romeo Menti: The Beating Heart of Vicenza's Football Passion

Where History, Tragedy, and Triumph Collide in Italian Football

Introduction

Since 1935, Stadio Romeo Menti has stood as more than just a football ground—it is a monument to Vicenza’s sporting soul. Named after the Torino and Italy striker who perished in the 1949 Superga air disaster, this 12,000-seat arena embodies the joy, sorrow, and unyielding passion of Vicenza Calcio. From Coppa Italia glory to European nights and heartbreaking relegations, the stadium has witnessed it all, cementing its place as one of Italy’s most emotionally charged football venues.

History & Construction: A Stadium Born from Tragedy and Hope

Opened in 1935 as Stadio del Littorio, later renamed in 1949 to honor Romeo Menti, a Vicenza-born footballer killed in the Superga disaster.
Post-WWII redevelopment transformed it into a modern(ish) facility, though it retains an old-school Italian charm.
1990s upgrades added covered stands and improved facilities ahead of Vicenza’s golden era.

The stadium’s most poignant moment came with its renaming, ensuring Menti’s legacy lives on. A memorial plaque at the entrance reminds fans of the man who once graced its pitch.

Architectural Features: An Intimate Football Cathedral

Capacity: 12,000 (all-seater since 2000s renovations).
Main Stand: The "Tribuna Coperta" (covered stand) houses VIPs, media, and the dugouts.
Curva Sud: The heart of the ultras, where flags, flares, and deafening chants fuel the team.
Pitch: Natural grass, meticulously maintained despite Vicenza’s financial struggles in recent years.

Unlike modern arenas, Romeo Menti’s tight stands and steep angles amplify the noise, making it a fortress despite its modest size.

Unforgettable Matches & Iconic Moments

Coppa Italia Glory (1996-97)

Vicenza’s greatest triumph, defeating Napoli over two legs.
The 1-0 first-leg win at home set the stage for their historic victory.

European Nights (1997-98 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup)

Semi-final vs. Chelsea – A 1-0 home win sent the Curva Sud into delirium, though they fell short at Stamford Bridge.
First-ever European campaign, putting Vicenza on the continental map.

Relegation Heartbreak & Phoenix-like Resurgences

Multiple last-day survival battles, including dramatic Serie B playoffs.
2018 bankruptcy and rebirth as LR Vicenza, with fans packing the stadium despite starting in Serie D.

Fan Culture: La Fossa dei Leoni (The Lions’ Den)

Ultras Group: "Fossa dei Leoni" (Lions’ Den) lead the tifo displays and non-stop chanting.
Derby dell’Amicizia? Matches vs. Hellas Verona (historically friendly, now tense) and Padova (bitter rivals).
Pre-match Rituals: Fans gather at Bar Campedelli for spritzes and panini before marching to the stadium.