Dubai/Switzerland – The remains of Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old Dubai-based student and Italian junior golfer, were repatriated to Italy on Monday following the deadly New Year’s Eve fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. Galeppini was among five of six Italians who died in the blaze, which injured 116 and claimed 40 lives.
The victims, including Achille Barosi, Chiara Costanzo, and Giovanni Tamburi, were flown to Milan aboard a military aircraft, with personnel saluting their coffins upon arrival. Footage showed Galeppini’s coffin arriving at the Capuchin Church inside San Martino Hospital in Genoa.
Galeppini, ranked 3,454th in the world amateur golf rankings, was described by the Italian Golf Federation as “a young athlete who carried passion and authentic values with him.” Local tributes in the UAE also highlighted his talent and kind nature, with Stephen Deane, Dubai Golf Head International Development Coach, recalling Galeppini’s dedication and love for the sport.
Swiss authorities said the fire likely started when sparkler candles placed on bottles near the ceiling caused a flashover, igniting the venue rapidly. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Matteo Mineo, Chief of Staff to Italy’s Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, expressed condolences on LinkedIn, calling Galeppini “a young life taken too soon” and extending sympathies to his family, friends, and the broader sporting community.
