Pavarotti's 90th: Football shirts celebrate opera legend

To commemorate what would have been Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti's 90th birthday and the current World Cup, a pair of football shirts are being released. Pavarotti, who passed away in 2007, famously popularized the aria "Nessun Dorma" during the 1990 World Cup held in his home country. He also had a youthful passion for football, playing as a goalkeeper and remaining a lifelong fan of Modena FC.

Pavarotti's widow, Nicoletta Mantovani, shared that football was one of his greatest passions. The shirts, released by his long-time label Decca, come in two designs: one in the colours of his favourite team and another with a Hawaiian pattern, reflecting his off-stage style. Both shirts bear the word "vincero" (I will win) and the number 90, a dual tribute to Pavarotti's milestone birthday and the 1990 World Cup.

The iconic aria "Nessun Dorma" was a significant part of Pavarotti's career, performed with The Three Tenors at multiple World Cups starting in 1990. The upcoming World Cup is scheduled to begin on Thursday in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Coinciding with these releases, the opera "Turandot," from which "Nessun Dorma" originates, marks the 100th anniversary of its premiere. The special edition shirts are available for purchase from June 9.