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Ernesto Pellegrini (December 14, 1940 – May 31, 2025) was an Italian entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known for his transformative leadership of Inter Milan from 1984 to 1995. A lifelong supporter of the club, Pellegrini’s tenure saw the Nerazzurri achieve historic successes, including the record-breaking 1988–89 Serie A title, two UEFA Cup victories, and the Italian Supercoppa. Beyond football, he was the founder of Pellegrini S.p.A., Italy’s largest family-owned food and welfare services company, and a dedicated philanthropist committed to social causes
UEFA Cup Victories: The club won the prestigious European competition in 1991 and 1994.
- Attribute: Details
- Full Name: Ernesto Pellegrini
- Date of Birth: December 14, 1940
- Place of Birth: Milan, Kingdom of Italy (now Italy)
- Date of Death: May 31, 2025
- Nationality: Italian
- Profession: Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Former Football Club President
- Known For: Leadership of Inter Milan, Founder of Pellegrini S.p.A., Philanthropy
- Net Worth: Estimated at €600 million (as of 2019)
- Spouse: Ivana Pellegrini
- Children: Daughter Valentina Pellegrini
- Major Achievements: Record-breaking 1988–89 Serie A title, two UEFA Cups, Italian Supercoppa, Founder of Pellegrini S.p.A., Founder of Ruben Restaurant
- Honors: Cavaliere del Lavoro (1990), Inductee into Inter MilanHall of Fame(2020), Inductee into Italian Football Hall of Fame (2022)
Charitable Work and Legacy
In 2013, Pellegrini and his family established the Ernesto Pellegrini Onlus Foundation, focusing on social welfare initiatives. One of its notable projects was the creation of the Ruben Restaurant in Milan, which provides affordable meals to those in need. The restaurant serves hundreds of meals daily, offering a lifeline to individuals facing economic hardships .
Pellegrini’s legacy is also marked by his recognition in the football world. He was inducted into the Inter Milan Hall of Fame in 2020 and the Italian Football Hall of Fame in 2022, honoring his contributions to the sport and his impact on the club .
Early Life and Family Background
Born into a family of farmers in Milan, Ernesto Pellegrini was raised in the working-class neighborhood of Morsenchio. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of community. After completing his studies at the Istituto Verri, he began his career as an accountant at the Bianchi bicycle company, where he quickly rose to the position of chief accountant and later managed the company’s canteen services. Recognizing the growing demand for workplace catering during Italy’s economic boom, Pellegrini founded Organizzazione Mense Pellegrini in 1965, which later became Pellegrini S.p.A. Under his leadership, the company expanded its services to include meal vouchers, corporate welfare, cleaning, and vending services, becoming Italy’s largest family-owned food and welfare services company .
Personal Life and Relationships
Ernesto Pellegrini was married to Ivana Pellegrini, and they had a daughter, Valentina, who later became the vice president of Pellegrini S.p.A. The family remained closely involved in the company’s operations, with Valentina playing a key role in its expansion and modernization .
Pellegrini S.p.A.
Beyond football, Pellegrini expanded his business empire through Pellegrini S.p.A., which became a leader in Italy’s food and welfare services sector. The company employed thousands and achieved significant revenue, reflecting Pellegrini’s business acumen and commitment to quality and service .
1988–89 Serie A Title: Inter secured the Scudetto with a record 58 points, a record that still stands today
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Pellegrini’s entrepreneurial success laid the foundation for his entry into football. In 1979, he joined the board of Inter Milan, his beloved childhood club. In 1984, he purchased the club from Ivanoe Fraizzoli for ten billion lire, becoming the 17th president in Inter’s history . His tenure was marked by strategic investments in top-tier players and a commitment to the club’s success on and off the pitch.
Pellegrini was instrumental in bringing legendary players to the club, including Jürgen Klinsmann, Lothar Matthäus, Andreas Brehme, and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. His strategic vision and leadership were pivotal in restoring Inter to prominence in Italian and European football .
Inter Milan Presidency (1984–1995)
Under Pellegrini’s leadership, Inter Milan achieved significant successes:
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2019, Pellegrini’s net worth was estimated at €600 million, primarily derived from his ownership of Pellegrini S.p.A. and his investments in various sectors. The company’s diverse services, including catering, meal vouchers, and welfare services, contributed to its significant revenue and global reach
Final Years and Passing
Ernesto Pellegrini passed away on May 31, 2025, at the age of 84, just hours before Inter Milan played in the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. The club honored his memory by wearing black armbands during the match, reflecting the profound impact he had on the club and its supporters
Italian Supercoppa: Inter clinched the Supercoppa Italiana in 1989.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
While Ernesto Pellegrini’s passing marks the end of an era, his influence continues to resonate in both the business and football worlds. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility serves as a model for future generations. The ongoing success of Pellegrini S.p.A. and the Ruben Restaurant are testaments to his enduring legacy.
Disclaimer: Ernesto Pellegrini: Age, wealth data updated April 2026.