Who is Sergio Parisse? Captain of Italy rugby and Top 14 superstar – here’s what we know


SERGIO Parisse has been a regular in Italy’s match-day squad since his debut as an 18-year-old.

Barely experienced in the world of professional rugby, the exciting backrower was thrust into the limelight during his debut against the All Blacks, and hasn’t looked back since.

Often described as an extra back for his impressive ball handling skills, Parisse is now widely regarded as one of the best No.8’s of his time.

Parisse was nominated for IRB International Player of the Year in 2008
Parisse was nominated for IRB International Player of the Year in 2008
Getty Images

How old is Sergio Parisse? Where was he born?

Best was born on 12 September 1983, so is currently 33.

Parisse was born and raised in La Plate, Argentina, where his father had been positioned for work.

Both of Parisse’s parents are of Italian nationality, with the family speaking Italian at home and travelling back to their country of origin every year for holiday.

Which club teams has Parisse played for?

The No.8 started his professional career playing for Treviso while they competed in the National Championship of Excellence – Italy’s top professional domestic league.

In 2005, Parisse decided to join a host of his Italian teammates at Top 14 giants Stade Francais.

He has gone on to make over 220 appearances for the French club.

When did Parisse become Italy captain?

The flanker was first given the captaincy of the Italian national side in 2008 at the age of 24, the same year he became the first Italian player to be nominated for IRB Player of the Year.

By the time he received the honour, he had already made over 50 appearances for his country, having made his Test debut in 2002.

Parisse has been praised for his exceptional handling skills
Parisse has been praised for his exceptional handling skills
Reuters

What are Parisse’s international stats?

The backrower has made 121 international appearances since his debut against the All Blacks 14 years ago, making him the ninth most capped international of all time.

Of those Test appearances, Parisse has started 118, having only featured from the bench three times.

He has also scored 14 tries and slotted one drop goal, giving him a total of 73 international points.

What is Sergio Parisse’s salary?

The Italian’s salary with Stade Francais remains undisclosed to the public. However, he is estimated to be one of Italian rugby’s biggest earners.

Who is Sergio Parisse’s wife? Do they have children?

Parisse married partner Silvia Bragazzi in 2014.

He was previously married to French supermodel Alexandra Rosenfeld, with whom he has a 6-year-old daughter, Ava.


Leave a comment