Commendable gesture: Como renew contract of Roberta Picchi after breast cancer diagnosis to provide support

According to Como's official announcement, forward Roberta Picchi has been diagnosed with breast cancer and will temporarily step away from football to receive treatment. The club has renewed her contract until the end of the 2027/28 season.

The news sent shockwaves through football, with Como, players and fans expressing their care for the player, who was born in 1992. The women's football department of the Italian Football Federation and Serie A Femminile also offered their support to Picchi.

Serie A Femminile president Federica Cappelletti said: “Some actions demonstrate the true value of sport more than any achievement. The club's decision to renew the contract of a player who is facing health issues, needs security, and needs companionship even more, deserves special mention. Because this means we cannot only look at performances, goals and matches; we must also see a person, stand beside her during her most difficult moments, and use concrete actions to tell her: ‘You are a member of our team, and we are with you.’”

“This is the football we want. It should be professional, ambitious and competitive, while never losing its humanity. I send my most sincere care to Picchi, and on behalf of the Serie A Femminile department, I offer her support and encourage her to stay strong, return to the pitch as soon as possible, and win this battle that requires determination. Thank you to Como for proving that a true team does not leave anyone behind. May this become an example.”

Como 1907 said in a statement that Roberta Picchi has completed medical examinations, and the results showed that she has breast cancer.

Picchi will begin treatment next. The club's medical team will provide support for her and work together with the specialist team responsible for her treatment. Como 1907 will accompany Picchi and her family and provide them with all necessary support.

As part of its continued support, Como has also extended Picchi's contract until the end of the 2027/28 season. Picchi will now focus on treatment and recovery, and Como has asked the public to respect her privacy.