A work of art that embodies passion, history, and sporting culture: today, a mural celebrating AC Milan's 125 years of history was unveiled at the San Siro Snai Hippodrome in Milan. Created by the Milanese artistic collective Orticanoodles, the mural is the result of a strong collaboration between AC Milan and SNAIFUN, Snaitech's app dedicated to promoting sports culture.
The project aims to honor AC Milan's rich history and its deep connection to the city of Milan. Fans played a key role in shaping the artwork through a poll conducted last October on the social media channels of both AC Milan and SNAIFUN, where they voted on various designs. The result is "A Team of Devils", a visual narrative intertwining symbols, iconic figures, and places with the core values that have always defined AC Milan: passion, inclusivity, and universality.
At the centre of the 20-meter-long and 3-meter-tall mural stands the Club's founder, Herbert Kilpin, accompanied by his legendary quote: "We will be a team of devils. Our colours will be red like fire and black to invoke fear in our opponents!" Flanking Kilpin are depictions of AC Milan players - both male and female - and the fans, symbolizing the Club's commitment to promoting women's football and uniting supporters from around the world under the same banner.
The mural's outer sections highlight the places that every Rossoneri fan has considered "home" over the past 125 years: the Fiaschetteria Toscana, where it all began in 1899; Casa Milan, the Club's headquarters since 2014; and, of course, San Siro Stadium, the stage for countless memorable triumphs. Spanning the length of the mural is the Milan skyline, reflecting the Club's roots in the city, as well as Snaitech's connection to the territory. Snaitech, an international group, is a Premium Partner of AC Milan through its SNAIFUN brand.
The unveiling event was attended by AC Milan President Paolo Scaroni, Snaitech CEO Fabio Schiavolin, AC Milan Chief Commercial Officer Maikel Oettle, Men's First Team Coach Paulo Fonseca, Women's First Team Coach Suzanne Bakker, and a delegation of AC Milan players from both teams. Also present were Brand Ambassador Daniele Massaro, Rossoneri Legend José Altafini, and artist Walter "Wally" Contipelli, co-founder of Orticanoodles and creator of the mural.
Maikel Oettle, Chief Commercial Officer of AC Milan, stated: "This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate 125 years of a history that has moved millions. I firmly believe that continuing such a legendary story requires surrounding ourselves with partners who can recognize and enhance our potential and traditions. For this reason, we are delighted that Snaitech has chosen to stand alongside us in this celebration, gifting us this magnificent mural. Once again, Snaitech proves to be an exceptional partner, sharing our core values: connection to our territory, respect for tradition, and a global vision."
Fabio Schiavolin, CEO of Snaitech, added: "As a Premium Partner of AC Milan through SNAIFUN, we at Snaitech are proud to have contributed to this project that celebrates the Club and its values, deeply rooted in the city of Milan: internationality, passion, and innovation. AC Milan is a modern organization that plays a prominent role in the entertainment industry, paying great attention to everything that captivates the general public, including new trends. The artwork unveiled today aligns with this vision, going beyond the pitch to allow all Milanese citizens and Rossoneri fans to experience the Club's unique 125th Anniversary in a participatory way."
The artwork will be on display at the iconic San Siro Snai Hippodrome and open to the public free of charge every day - except for the period between 15-19 December and on 25 December 2024 - from 10:00am to 7:00pm, until the end of the 2024/25 football season. Entry is available via Piazzale dello Sport 6, Milan.
Continuing the spirit of sharing and engagement that has defined this initiative from its inception, fans will once again take center stage through a contest running from 13 to 27 December on SNAIFUN's Instagram profile. Prizes include 10 AC Milan Authentic 125th Anniversary jerseys and 10 numbered, signed art prints by Orticanoodles. To participate, fans need to follow SNAIFUN's Instagram account, comment on the mural presentation post using the hashtag #Milan125, and tag three friends.