Corato Calcio withdraws from promotion, sparks local protest

Corato Calcio announced it will not register for the upcoming Apulia Promotion league, a decision described by club president Francesco Colabella as the most difficult of his tenure. The club cited rising operating costs and insufficient financial backing from local businesses as the main reasons for the withdrawal.

The announcement triggered a strong reaction from fans and residents. A banner bearing the slogan “Too many words, no reality. Bring sport back to the city” was displayed on the municipal building by the group “Maledetta Gioventù.” A public demonstration has been scheduled for July 27 at 18:00 in front of the Corato town hall, aiming to press local entrepreneurs and the administration for support.

The situation follows a similar recent decision by the city’s basketball team, Nuova Matteotti Corato, which also withdrew from its league for financial reasons, highlighting broader challenges for municipal sport clubs.