Former Chelsea Star Gianfranco Zola Joins Europe Ryder Cup Backroom Team in New York

Gianfranco Zola, the former Chelsea football star and manager, has taken on an unexpected role at the 2025 Ryder Cup as the designated buggy driver for Europe's vice-captain, Francesco Molinari, at Bethpage Black in New York. Beyond his driving duties, Zola brings valuable experience in handling hostile crowds, advising the European team to use the raucous American support as motivation, drawing from his football career in front of passionate fans. Zola's friendship with Molinari and his invitation into Luke Donald's backroom team highlight a unique crossover between football and golf. Despite being out of football since 2019, Zola's presence adds a sense of team spirit and camaraderie that enriches the Ryder Cup atmosphere. Fans have enjoyed seeing Zola's relaxed ease and fun personality in this unconventional role, underscoring that the tournament is about memorable moments and people as much as competition. This collaboration between Zola and Molinari also stems from their shared football connections, with Molinari being a West Ham fan during Zola's managerial stint there.