Former Inter president Ernesto Pellegrini dies aged 84 | OneFootball

Inter are mourning the loss of one of their most iconic presidents, Ernesto Pellegrini, who has passed away at the age of 84 on the very day the Nerazzurri prepare to play the Champions League final against PSG.

Pellegrini took charge of the club in 1984, purchasing it from Ivanoe Fraizzoli, and presided over one of the most successful eras in Inter’s modern history, in a tenure defined by ambition, vision, and silverware.

Former Inter president Ernesto Pellegrini dies aged 84

Under his leadership and Giovanni Trapattoni’s management, Inter won the legendary ‘Scudetto dei record’ in 1988–89, setting a new points record for an 18-team Serie A season with 2 points per win.

MUNICH, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 24: Former player and TV expert Lothar Matthäus is seen prior to the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and RB Leipzig at Allianz Arena on February 24, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Pellegrini was also behind the arrival of German stars Lothar Matthäus, Andreas Brehme, Jürgen Klinsmann, and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge — players who helped define an era. Inter also lifted two UEFA Cups (1991, 1994) and a Supercoppa Italiana (1989) during his presidency.

The 1991 UEFA Cup triumph, in particular, ended a 26-year wait for European glory. Pellegrini eventually sold the club to Massimo Moratti in 1995, but his legacy continues to be remembered to this day.