Bologna FC 1909: The Historic Rossoblù Dreaming of Glory

From Seven-Time Champions to European Ambitions – The Resurgence of an Italian Giant

A Club Steeped in History

Founded in 1909, Bologna Football Club is one of Italy’s most storied clubs, with a legacy that includes seven Serie A titles, two Coppa Italia triumphs, and a UEFA Intertoto Cup. Based in the vibrant city of Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, the Rossoblù (Red and Blues) have long been a symbol of passion, resilience, and footballing tradition.

Though their golden era came in the 1930s and 1940s, when they dominated Italian football, the club has faced decades of struggle—relegations, financial crises, and ownership turmoil. But today, under Thiago Motta's leadership and Joey Saputo's ownership, Bologna is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, culminating in a 2023-24 Champions League qualification—their first in 60 years.

The Golden Era: Italy’s First Superpower

1920s–1940s: The Glory Days

Bologna was one of the founding members of Serie A in 1929, but their dominance began even earlier. Under the legendary Árpád Weisz, they won:

1924-25 – First Scudetto (pre-Serie A)
1928-29 – Second title before league restructuring
1935-36, 1936-37, 1938-39—Three titles in four years
1940-41—Their last wartime triumph

This period established Bologna as one of Italy’s greatest clubs, with a fast, attacking style that earned them the nickname "The Team That Shakes the World".

1964: The Last Scudetto

Their seventh and final league title came in 1963-64, led by stars like Harald Nielsen and Giacomo Bulgarelli. This victory earned them a place in the European Cup, but they were shockingly eliminated by Anderlecht in the preliminary round.

Decline and Revival: From Serie B to European Dreams

The Dark Years (1970s–2000s)

1970s: Two Coppa Italia wins (1970, 1974) but declining league form.
1980s: Relegated to Serie B, then even Serie C1 due to financial woes.
1990s: A brief revival—UEFA Intertoto Cup winners (1998), but instability continued.
2000s: Multiple ownership changes, financial struggles, and yo-yoing between Serie A and B.

The Saputo Revolution (2014–Present)

In 2014, Canadian businessman Joey Saputo (owner of CF Montréal) took over, bringing stability and ambition. Key milestones:

2015: Promotion back to Serie A after years in the wilderness.
2018-19: A 10th-place finish, signaling progress.
2023-24: A historic 5th-place finish (68 points), securing Champions League football for the first time since 1964-65.

Stadium Renato Dall’Ara: A Fortress of Passion

A Historic Home

Opened: 1927
Capacity: 38,000 (10th-largest in Serie A)
Iconic Moments: Hosted 1990 World Cup matches, including Diego Maradona’s Argentina.

The stadium is a symbol of Bologna’s identity, with its towering Torre di Maratona (Marathon Tower) and electric matchday atmosphere.

Rivalries: The Fire of Emilia-Romagna

Derby dell’Emilia: Bologna vs. Parma

A fierce regional clash, fueled by proximity and pride.
Memorable matches: 2000 Serie A thriller (Bologna 3-2 Parma).

Battles with the Giants: Juventus & Inter

Juventus: The ultimate test—Bologna’s 2-1 upset in 2002 derailed Juve’s title bid.
Inter Milan: A 3-1 stunner in 2001 showcased Bologna’s giant-killing ability.

The Thiago Motta Era: A New Dawn

Tactical Brilliance

Since his appointment in 2022, Motta has transformed Bologna with:
✔ Possession-based, attacking football
✔ Youth development (Orsolini, Ferguson, Zirkzee)
✔ Defensive solidity (one of Serie A’s best defences in 2023-24)

2023-24: The Season That Changed Everything

Record 68 points—highest in club history.
Champions League qualification—first since 1964.
Key players: Joshua Zirkzee (goals), Lewis Ferguson (midfield mastery), Riccardo Orsolini (club icon).

The Future: Back Among Europe’s Elite

Bologna’s 2024-25 Champions League campaign marks a new chapter. With a mix of young talent, shrewd signings, and Thiago Motta’s vision, the Rossoblù are no longer just a historic name—they’re a modern force.