Football fans are in for a surprise this October as Serie A legend Lamberto Boranga gears up for an unexpected comeback.
At 82, Boranga is preparing to step back onto the pitch with Trevi, a seventh-tier Italian club, proving that passion for the game doesn’t fade with age.
From Serie A Glory to a Masters Athletics Star
Boranga, who retired in 1983 after a storied career with Fiorentina and Perugia, hasn’t exactly been idle since hanging up his gloves.
Over the decades, he’s dominated Masters Athletics, winning gold medals in long jump and high jump at both European and World competitions.
His athletic feats include a 5.47-meter long jump at age 65—a world record—and a 10.75-meter triple jump at nearly 70, cementing his reputation as one of the fittest football retirees ever.
Training Like a Pro Again
This isn’t a casual comeback for Boranga. He’s training under Marco Bonaiuti, former Inter Milan goalkeeping coach, and sticking to a disciplined routine that blends football drills with his ongoing athletics regimen.
“I train four times a week, one session at maximum intensity,” he explained.
There are days I feel 50 years old. Biological age and what’s on paper are two different things.”
Balancing Football With Masters Competition
October will be a busy month for Boranga.
In addition to his match with Trevi, he will compete in the European Masters Athletics Championships in Madeira, taking on events like the long jump, triple jump, and pole vault.
While he doesn’t expect to play the full 90 minutes on the football field, his goal is to showcase that age is just a number. “I don’t want to look like a clown.
The coach decides, but I want to prove what’s possible when you maintain your body and mind,” he said.
The Secret Behind His Longevity
Boranga attributes his extraordinary longevity to a simple but disciplined lifestyle. His daily habits include:
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A balanced diet with very little meat, no alcohol, no smoking, and a focus on soy milk.
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Regular physical activity, including athletics training and football practice.
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Sexual activity, which he humorously cites as part of his routine.
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Daily walks after meals and careful meal planning—a large breakfast, energy bar for lunch, and a light dinner.
“It’s about moderation and consistency,” Boranga said.
“The right food, regular exercise, and keeping active in all areas of life. That’s my formula.”
A Remarkable Life in Football and Sport
Over his combined 11 appearances at European and World Masters events, Boranga has claimed 10 medals, including five golds, proving that even decades after leaving professional football, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
As he laces up his gloves again this October, the Italian legend is ready to remind the world that passion and discipline can keep the spirit—and the body—ageless.