Loftus Stadium, home of the Vodacom Bulls, hosted a unique Italian-themed lunch on Wednesday, March 5, celebrating the rich culture and heritage of Italy. The event brought together the beloved fortress, the Herd, and the XV of the North-West, offering fans a taste of la dolce vita through Italian cuisine, drinks, music, and fashion. It also served as a prelude to the eagerly anticipated Vodacom United Rugby Championship (VURC) clash.
The grand Italian rugby festival, #LoftusFestaItaliana, is set to take place on Saturday, March 29, 2024, when the Vodacom Bulls face Zebre Parma in Round 14 of the VURC.
Andrea Duodo, Chairperson of the Rugby Department, highlighted that the March 29 match would be a key opportunity to connect Italy and South Africa through sport, culture, and business. “We will participate in three special events: a festival dedicated to talent, gastronomy, and masterclasses on nutrition for athletes, as well as a focus on the economic value of sports,” Duodo said.
Alberto Vecchi, the Italian Ambassador, who attended the lunch virtually, emphasized rugby’s significance in South African culture and the need for Italy to develop its rugby talent. “As Ambassador, it is my responsibility to foster bilateral relations between South Africa and Italy, remembering that rugby unites. This event promotes the friendship and cultural exchange we need.”
The #LoftusFestaItaliana offered an immersive Italian cultural experience, blending the passion for rugby with the timeless traditions of Italy. Attendees had the chance to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, sip on fine Italian wines and espresso, and listen to both traditional and modern live Italian music.
The success and collaboration of the event are expected to open new avenues for South African businesses to engage with Italian partners.