Montignoso Frazioni Tournament — Giancarlo Paolini Memorial

The tournament that divides (and unites) Montignoso

The Montignoso Frazioni Tournament is much more than an amateur football competition: it is the summer palio that every year, throughout June, pits the neighborhoods and districts of the municipality of Montignoso, in the province of Massa-Carrara, in the heart of the Apuan Versilia, against one another. Now in its 21st edition in 2026, the tournament is named the Giancarlo Paolini Memorial, in memory of a figure deeply loved by the local community.

Eight districts, one trophy

Eight teams representing as many local districts compete for the title: Renella, Prato, Piazza, Cinquale, Cervaiolo, Montagne, Cerreto, and Capanne. The teams are divided into two round-robin groups and face off during the warm June evenings; the top-ranked teams advance to the playoffs, then the semi-finals, and finally the grand final. The yellow-and-green team from Renella enters the 2026 edition as the defending champion after their success in 2025.

The Del Freo stadium, the stage for the challenges

The heart of the tournament is the Del Freo municipal stadium in Montignoso, which fills with fans from every district during the key matches. The atmosphere is that of a true local derby: chants, flags, banners, and colorful smoke flares accompany the games, which are generally scheduled for 9:30 PM to enjoy the cool evening air. The matches attract hundreds of enthusiasts every year, turning summer nights into a collective celebration.

More than just a football match

Over the years, the Frazioni Tournament has enriched its format with side events: the presentation gala with the team parade, the group draw hosted in prestigious settings like Villa Schiff, the Frazioni Super Cup, and the Sportsmanship Award assigned by the Matteo Caleo Foundation to the fairest player of the final. A mix that makes the event a deeply felt appointment for the entire community of Montignoso and the Apuan Tuscany region.