Oscar winner Russell Crowe has confirmed his support for Lazio, despite suggestions that he’s a fan of intercity rivals Roma.
The New Zealand-born actor fell in love with the city of Rome after starring in the hit film Gladiator in 2000, and he has often returned to the Eternal City, becoming a hero of the local populace. Over the years, many have been unsure which of the two teams he supports, something he clarified at the Rome Film Festival back in October.
Speaking in a press conference for the presentation of his film ‘The Poker Face’, Crowe first discussed his relationship with the city of Rome and how it felt to be awarded the ‘Ambassador of Rome in the World’ title.
The nomination is something that surprised and sincerely moved me. It is difficult for me to express my gratitude and as I told the mayor, I will always be at the service of the Romans.
From the beginning the people of this city made me feel like one of them, with their special humanity.
Now on the street they call to me ahò’ and I answer anyway. I am also Roman now, even though I come from the other side of the world.
He joked about an incident he had with some local students.
I feel a bit like everyone’s uncle when I am here among the Romans. The other day I attended a conference with students, I joked a little, but I advised them of one thing, that no one should tell them that certain things are impossible to achieve.
I am living proof of this fact. The hall erupted in great applause, it is proof that they love me. People here seem genuinely happy to see me.
Finally, Crowe clarified which of the two Roman teams he supports.
I have always appreciated the generosity of the Roma fans, their friendship, the love they show me when they meet me in the street, but… the Colosseum is in Lazio, and the conversation ends there.
In the past, Crowe has been pictured with a signed Lazio shirt and even told a fan on the streets of the city ‘Forza Lazio’ when asked about which club he supports.