MILAN — The synergies between fashion and sports are not stopping anytime soon.
Ask Italian soccer club AS Roma, which on Wednesday made a double announcement that took the cross-pollination between the two fields to the next level.
A new multiyear partnership with Dsquared2 to design its formalwear and casual uniforms proved that the green pitch is still a fertile territory for fashion showcases, along with the club’s appointment of former Tod’s and Chanel executive John Galantic as its new chief executive officer, highlighting how fashion is now stepping into the boardrooms, too.
Fitting time as Dsquared2 has become AS Roma’s official fashion partner.
Courtesy of Dsquared2
In an open letter, AS Roma’s owner Friedkin family — led by American businessman Dan Friedkin, chairman and CEO of the namesake consortium of businesses operating in the automotive, luxury hospitality, sports and entertainment industries — underscored how Galantic “has led several global companies at the highest level,” mentioning also how he served on the board of Ferrari.
“As an American-Swiss national of Italian origin — he is a lifelong Romanista. John loves and understands this city, its fans and what this club means to them. We firmly believe he is the right man to lead this club into its second century,” read the letter.
Galantic’s appointment comes in a key season for the club, as it returns to the Champions League competition and already started the celebrations of its centennial next year.
Dsquared2 has become AS Roma’s official fashion partner.
Courtesy of Dsquared2
The club is poised to mark the milestone in style, courtesy of Dean and Dan Caten, who will exclusively design formalwear and casual uniforms for the men’s and women’s first-team players, along with coaches and staff, to be unveiled later this year.
“We have always believed that fashion is about identity and confidence — values that are just as important in sport,” said the Catens jointly in a statement. “AS Roma’s incredible history and passion make this a natural partnership. As twin brothers raised by our father, we have always felt a deep connection to the city of Rome and the powerful symbolism surrounding its founding legend [of twins Romulus and Remus]. The image of two brothers finding strength and guidance through the figure who raised them has always held a special meaning for us.”
Dsquared2 has become AS Roma’s official fashion partner.
Courtesy of Dsquared2
AS Roma’s chief business officer Michael Gandler underscored how Dsquared2 shares the club’s “core values of excellence, style and boldness.”
“Fashion and football are two worlds driven by identity and passion, and together we will bring this shared energy to the pitch, official events and everyday life. Our players and staff will have the privilege of wearing pieces that combine elegance with character, perfectly reflecting the spirit of AS Roma,” he said.
Dsquared2 has become AS Roma’s official fashion partner.
Courtesy of Dsquared2
As reported, Galantic quietly left his role as CEO of Tod’s in May. He joined the Italian brand in September 2024, shortly after the delisting of Tod’s Group, and remained behind the scenes during his time at the company, rarely seen at the brand’s shows or events.
Before joining Tod’s, Galantic was president and chief operating officer of Chanel Inc., exiting the company at the end of June 2023. He had joined Chanel in 2006 and, over the years, spearheaded the development of the company’s digital capabilities, increased Chanel’s owned distribution and contributed to drive sustainability and social commitment through initiatives such as Sunrun, the launch of Chanel Community and the Racial Justice Fund.
Galantic was charged with leading the strategic and operational activity for Chanel in the U.S., responsible for fashion, accessories, watches, fine jewelry, beauty and fragrance, as well as wholesale distribution and freestanding retail. During his tenure, he was involved in transforming its wholesale business with U.S. department and specialty stores into a concession model.
Prior to joining Chanel, Galantic was president of Coty Beauty U.S. Earlier, the Harvard Business School graduate held senior posts at SmithKline Beecham and The Procter & Gamble Co.
