It is with deep sorrow and sadness that the New York Cosmos confirm the loss of one of its greatest champions, a person who made a major impact on the recent history of the club and who will never be forgotten. Giuseppe Barone passed away today at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan after suddenly falling ill on Sunday.

Rocco Commisso and his family, and all of Cosmos Country are utterly devastated by the terrible loss of a man who was a central figure in the reboot of the Cosmos and a tireless advocate for independent soccer in the United States. Joe was a treasured friend who always stayed strong in the happiest and, above all, the most difficult moments.

The entire Cosmos family sends its heartfelt condolences to Joe’s wife Camilla, his children, and the entire Barone family during this time of immense sorrow.