Creating a Legacy for the Future with the Italian Women’s National Team

A group of young footballers from ASD Balon Mundial Onlus experienced an unforgettable day alongside the Italy women’s national team, as part of Legacy for the Future, a UEFA Foundation for Children.

Hosted at the Italian Football Federation’s historic headquarters in Coverciano, the visit gave the young participants a unique opportunity to watch the Azzurre train, interact with players and technical staff, and experience elite football up close. Beyond the pitch, the day was about inspiration, confidence, and showing what is possible through dedication, teamwork, and belief.

Empowering Girls and Women Beyond Football

Legacy for the Future was launched in 2025 to ensure that Women’s EURO 2025 delivers a long-term social impact. The programme supports initiatives that empower girls and women not only in football, but also in:

  • Education and lifelong learning
  • Employment and leadership
  • Social inclusion and community life

As part of the initiative, each national association participating in Women’s EURO 2025 selected one organisation in its country working to advance gender equality. These organisations receive:

  • Financial support
  • Increased visibility and networking opportunities
  • Capacity-building support to strengthen their long-term impact

Italy selected Balon Mundial, a Turin-based non-profit organisation founded in 2012 that uses football as a tool to promote inclusion and challenge discrimination.

A Shared Moment of Values and Inspiration

Speaking after the visit, experienced Italy defender Elena Linari highlighted the importance of these exchanges:

“We were able to host a group of extraordinary young women who share truly unique values with us. It was genuinely very special to welcome them here in Coverciano.”

For the players, the presence of young people who see football as a means of inclusion and empowerment brought renewed meaning to their daily work.

 

Bringing Football Back to a Human Scale

For Balon Mundial’s project manager Beatrice Serasso, the day represented something deeply meaningful:

“This experience allows our girls and our women’s team to connect with a reality that is often only seen on screens. Moments like this remind us that football can still feel human and accessible.”

Her colleague Elena Fatta described the invitation as recognition of the organisation’s mission:

“Being here today is a sign that we are succeeding. It motivates us to continue expanding our work and breaking down barriers through sport.”

 

Legacy for the Future: additional information

 

 

About ASD Balon Mundial

ASD Balon Mundial ONLUS is an amateur sports association founded in Turin in 2012. Through football and inclusive empowerment programs, it promotes social inclusion, education, and active citizenship. Working within national and international networks, the association develops innovative non-formal education methods focused on fair play, respect, and conflict resolution. Each year, its projects engage over 7,000 people of all ages and backgrounds, using sport as a catalyst for equality and community empowerment.