Costa Cruises Becomes Main Sponsor of Virtus Bologna

Costa Crociere is moving into Italian basketball after agreeing a new partnership with one of the country’s most successful clubs.

The cruise line has been confirmed as both Title Sponsor and Main Sponsor of Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna for the 2026/27 season. As part of the agreement, the team will compete in Italy’s Lega Basket Serie A under the new name Virtus Costa Bologna.

The partnership was officially unveiled on September 13 aboard Costa Pacifica while the cruise ship was docked in Savona. The presentation also included the team’s new jersey and was attended by Costa Crociere CEO Mario Zanetti and Virtus Bologna President Massimo Zanetti.

The agreement comes at a significant time for Virtus Bologna, with the club preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Costa branding will feature on the team’s jersey as well as throughout its arena during the domestic championship.

The collaboration will extend beyond basketball, with Virtus players set to take part in experiences aboard Costa cruise ships. The two organizations are also planning activities and events for supporters in Bologna, Liguria and elsewhere in Italy.

For Costa, the sponsorship provides an opportunity to increase its presence in Bologna, the Emilia-Romagna region and across northern Italy. Virtus, meanwhile, gains the backing of an established Italian company with an international presence.

“Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna and Costa have much in common: the same ambition to be at the top and the same ability to turn an evening or a journey into a lasting emotion,” Costa Crociere CEO Mario Zanetti said in the announcement.

Virtus President Massimo Zanetti also welcomed Costa’s involvement during the club’s centenary season, describing the partnership as an important addition for Virtus and Bologna as well as Italian sport more broadly.

The launch aboard Costa Pacifica provided a symbolic setting for the new partnership, bringing together professional basketball and the travel experiences offered by the Italian cruise company.

The agreement covers the entire 2026/27 season, with further onboard experiences, supporter activities and special events marking Virtus Bologna’s centenary expected throughout the year.