Giorgio Pompili Rossi, the newly-appointed CEO of the Malaysian Football League (MFL), is familiar with Malaysia, having worked here from 2017 to 2021 as a La Liga delegate.
During that time, Rossi built a solid relationship with Kevin Ramalingam, then CEO of Football Malaysia Limited Liability Partnership, now known as MFL. In 2019, MFL signed a partnership with La Liga, with both Kevin and Rossi attending the signing ceremony.
As La Liga’s delegate, Rossi’s role was to bring the Spanish league closer to Malaysian fans and media.
Rossi replaces Datuk Stuart Ramalingam, who attended his final MFL board meeting on Sept 4. The MFL officially announced Rossi’s appointment this afternoon.
Stuart is set to take a sabbatical before joining the corporate sector. He will, however, continue to serve as coordinator for the ‘Road to Gold’ programme, which aims to secure Malaysia’s first Olympic gold medal.
Although on leave, Stuart met with Rossi to brief him on his new responsibilities as the first foreigner to take on the role of MFL CEO.
Who is Giorgio Pompili Rossi?
Rossi holds three master’s degrees – in Sports Management, Sports Marketing, and Business Administration in Sports and Entertainment Management.
His expertise spans digital and sports marketing, project and event execution, sponsorship and partnership, and revenue generation.
He began his football career in 2013 as a sales and new business agent for Serie A clubs through a commercial agency. He later moved to Valencia CF in Spain, contributing to the club’s marketing and commercial operations.
After four years, Rossi joined La Liga, becoming its delegate to Malaysia. In 2021, he was promoted to La Liga delegate for Thailand, overseeing the league’s interests in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
Previous MFL CEOs
Kevin Ramalingam was the first CEO of the MFL, then known as Football Malaysia Limited Liability Partnership, in 2015. He stepped down in 2019, and Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan took over as interim CEO before becoming president in 2021.
Ab Ghani was succeeded by Stuart Ramalingam.
What does the MFL say?
Ab Ghani said Rossi’s extensive international experience in the football industry, including sponsorship, clubs, and leagues, was key to his appointment.
“We are honoured to have Rossi join the MFL. His expertise will drive the football industry forward, and we have full confidence in his leadership as CEO,” Ab Ghani said.
“He will officially take up the position once his visa is processed.”
Ab Ghani also highlighted Rossi’s familiarity with Malaysian football and the region, saying it would enhance MFL’s operations, particularly in competition and commercial management.
He also expressed gratitude to Stuart for his leadership during his three-year tenure, citing his efforts in implementing VAR and enhancing the league’s commercial value.
