Atalanta-Club Brugge, the executive luncheon
Pre-match meet-up at the New Balance Lounge
A gathering awash in full black-and-blue hues set the stage for the institutional prologue to the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League League Phase Matchday 2, which will also mark the official debut of the New Balance Arena, all unfolding in the spirit of the traditional UEFA Fair Play ceremony.
With the revamped New Balance Lounge serving as an exclusive setting for the institutional gathering, Atalanta took on the role of host of honor, welcoming the delegations attending the official pre-match lunch. The occasion fostered a spirit of connection and camaraderie, celebrating the international cooperation between the two clubs and the core values at the heart of the beautiful game.
As per tradition, the three-Michelin-starred Da Vittorio presented guests with a tailor-made menu for the occasion, featuring the famous and eponymous paccheri.
Representing the "home side" were co-Chairman Stephen Pagliuca, Advisor Joseph Pagliuca, Marc Casper, Corporate General Manager Andrea Fabris, Institutional General Manager Umberto Marino and Secretary General and UEFA Main Contact Marco Semprini.
For Club Brugge, the line-up included CEO Bob Madou, il Chief Financial Officer Nicky Laukens, il Chief Legal Officer and UEFA Main Contact Thomas Delameillieure, Director of Football Devy Rigaux and Sporting Director Maarten Dedobbeleer.
Highlighting UEFA’s pivotal role in championing sporting integrity and fair play both on and off the pitch, delegate Jenni Kennedy attended the event on behalf of the organisation.