Torino Football Club, often affectionately called Il Toro (The Bull), holds a unique place in the hearts of its fans, particularly in the Filadelfia borough of Turin. Founded on December 3, 1906, Torino has a storied history in Italian football, and while the club may not boast the global accolades of some of its counterparts, the loyalty and passion of its fan base have made it one of the most respected clubs in Italy.
One of the club’s most remarkable aspects is its connection to its supporters. As lifelong fan Antonio Cunazza remarks, “The bond between Torino Calcio, the fans, and the local Filadelfia borough is strong and it means a lot. Being born, growing up, and still living here, as a Torino fan I feel it, it’s part of me.” This deep-rooted connection transcends trophies, ownership changes, or fluctuating results. For Torino fans, being Granata – a reference to the club’s iconic maroon colours – is an identity built on working-class roots, commitment, and a sense of heritage passed down through generations.
“Being ‘Granata’ is about working class roots, commitment, passion and heritage. This is something that we will always defend.”
Antonio Cunazza
At the heart of this identity is the Filadelfia district, historically the training ground and spiritual home of the club. Cunazza notes, “Supporting Torino is about devotion and identity. You can feel that among the fans, at the stadium, and through the streets of our borough.” This neighborhood represents the pulse of the club’s history, and fans have always fiercely defended its legacy.
Torino’s home ground, the historic Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, named after the legendary team that perished in the 1949 Superga air disaster, serves as a modern-day fortress for the club’s loyal supporters. The disaster, which claimed the lives of most of Torino’s first team – known as Il Grande Torino – deepened the emotional ties between the club and its fans, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s identity. Even today, the memory of Il Grande Torino continues to inspire pride and loyalty in supporters.
The Stadio Filadelfia, located in the heart of Turin’s Filadelfia district, is a historic ground deeply intertwined with the identity of Torino FC. Originally opened in 1926, it served as the iconic home and training ground for Il Grande Torino, the legendary team of the 1940s. Though it fell into disrepair in the late 20th century, it was restored and reopened in 2017, preserving its legacy as a symbol of the club’s spirit. For many fans, Filadelfia represents the soul of Torino FC, a place where past glory and enduring passion converge.
The Curva Maratona at Torino’s Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino is the beating heart of the club’s passionate fan base. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it is where the most devoted supporters gather, filling the stands with banners, chants, and unwavering energy. The Curva Maratona has long been a symbol of Torino’s working-class roots and relentless spirit, embodying the club’s motto of resilience and unity.
A key part of Torino’s identity also lies in its fierce rivalry with cross-town giants Juventus. The Derby della Mole, one of Italy’s most heated derbies, divides the city into two distinct factions. Torino, representing the working class, is seen as the people’s team, while the Old Lady, Juventus, with its immense wealth and success, is often viewed as the establishment. This rivalry has only added to the club’s passionate following, with Torino fans priding themselves on their resilience and undying support, regardless of the club’s position in the league.
Through a lot of his work, Antonio Cunazza, captures the essence of this devotion. “Being Granata is about working-class roots, commitment, passion and heritage. This is something that we will always defend,” he says.
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