by InTrieste
In a significant editorial restructuring at Corriere della Sera, Italy’s most widely read newspaper has appointed two women as co-editors for the first time in its 150-year history. Fiorenza Sarzanini and Barbara Stefanelli will serve as condirettrici under editor-in-chief Luciano Fontana, with the changes set to take effect in mid-May.
Stefanelli currently serves as deputy editor and as editor of Sette, the paper’s Friday magazine supplement. Sarzanini is also a deputy editor and has long been a leading voice on political and judicial reporting. Their simultaneous elevation marks the first occasion in the paper’s history that two co-editors have been named at the same time.
Founded in 1876, Corriere della Sera has played a central role in Italian public life and journalism for nearly a century and a half. The announcement comes shortly after the newspaper marked its 150th anniversary with an event at La Scala in Milan attended by President Sergio Mattarella.
The new structure also reflects the paper’s dual base between Milan and Rome, where Stefanelli and Sarzanini are respectively located. As part of the broader reorganisation, Venanzio Postiglione will take on an expanded role as editor of Sette while continuing his work as a columnist and coordinator of events linked to the anniversary year. Davide Casati, head of digital at Via Solferino, is expected to become deputy editor. Other deputy editors, including Luciano Ferraro, Giampaolo Tucci and Daniele Manca, will remain in their positions.
The changes come during the tenure of editor-in-chief Luciano Fontana, who has led the newspaper since 2015 and recently became its longest-serving postwar editor. His period in charge has coincided with the paper’s ongoing digital transition and the consolidation of RCS MediaGroup under Cairo Communication ownership.
Within this context, the appointment of Sarzanini and Stefanelli also suggests an effort to formalise succession planning within the newsroom’s leadership structure.
Both journalists have spent most of their careers at Corriere della Sera. Sarzanini is known for her reporting on crime, politics and the Italian justice system, while Stefanelli has focused on culture and broader social issues, alongside her editorial responsibilities.
The reorganization will be implemented in mid-May, marking a notable shift in the newspaper’s senior editorial framework after a period of relative stability.
