History of ACF Fiorentina
The birth of a purple legend from Florence's football mergers.
ACF Fiorentina was founded on 26 August 1926, following a merger between Club Sportivo Firenze and Palestra Ginnastica Fiorentina Libertas, facilitated by fascist leader Luigi Ridolfi Vay da Verrazzano. The club initially wore white and red shirts, but in 1929 a washing accident turned the kit purple, which became the official color.
- Born
- 26 August 1926
- Field
- Florence, Italy
- Nationality
- Italian
- Known for
- Founding through merger under fascist regime; initial colors white and red, later changed to purple after a washing accident in 1929
Lore & Background
Fiorentina's first match was a friendly against Signa, lost 2–1, according to La Nazione. The first official match was on 3 October 1926, a 3–1 home victory over Pisa in Prima Divisione Group C. In 1927–28, Fiorentina finished second in Girone Sud (Group South) behind Bari. The 1928–29 season saw the team finish last in Group B of Divisione Nazionale, but they were re-admitted to Serie B by FIGC decision. Player Rodolfo Volk, using the fake name Bolteni, scored 12 goals in 1926–27.
Reader's Guide
Fiorentina's early history includes key figures like first chairman Luigi Ridolfi and first trainer Károly Csapkay. The club's colors evolved from white and red to purple after a dye mishap. Notable early players include Bolteni (Rodolfo Volk), who played under a false name due to military restrictions.
Did You Know?
- Fiorentina's first chairman, Luigi Ridolfi, held the position for about fifteen years.
- The club's purple color originated from a washing accident in 1929 when red dye ran into white jerseys.
- Player Rodolfo Volk played under the fake name Bolteni because he was enlisted in military service and lacked authorization to play.
- Fiorentina's first official match was a 3–1 win over Pisa on 3 October 1926.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in Fiorentina
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