Scudetto of the Pistols

The journalistic expression ‘Scudetto of the Pistols’ refers to the title of ‘champion of Italy’ conquered by Bologna in the 1924-1925 First Division, the 25th edition of the top level of the Italian men's football championship, as well as, in the broad sense, to the entire season and the numerous controversies that determined its outcome.

The competition, won by Bologna in the national final against Alba Roma, was in fact characterised by a series of disputes involving sporting decisions, political influences, and judicial rulings, that took place during the final of the Northern League (the section of the championship reserved for teams from northern Italy) between Bologna and reigning champions Genoa; this series, lasting five matches, included refereeing disputes, institutional disagreements, and incidents of violence, leading to the nickname ‘Scudetto of the Pistols’.

Genoa disputed the tournament results, citing concerns over fairness and legitimacy, while Bologna always defended its validity.