Superstar footballer Diego Lugano may have left the sport in 2014, but his renowned leadership and passion for overcoming challenges continues as he works to inspire a new generation of athletes.
In his keynote address at RootsTech Connect 2021, Diego explained his love of breaking boundaries—something he did often as a professional athlete. “Satisfaction lies in breaking your own limits, your own boundaries; not in achieving great results, whether they're in sports, business, or money, but in continuing to move on from your own little phases,” he said.
Listen to Diego share his experience as a professional athlete and what he’s doing now to support his family and community.
Who Is Diego Lugano?
Diego Alfredo Lugano Morena was born in 1980 in Canelones, Uruguay. The only son of Alfredo Lugano and Diana Morena, Diego grew up with five sisters. As a young man, Diego played football—soccer, for US fans—for his hometown Club Atlético Libertad, where his father was team captain for 20 years.
Diego was only 18 when he joined the first-team squad that clinched the league championship for Libertad. In 1999, Diego transferred to the Club Nacional de Football in Montevideo, a top Uruguayan team. A year later, Diego married Karina Roncio. They became the parents of three children.
What Is Diego Lugano Known For?
As a central defender for teams both at home and abroad, Diego achieved international fame. Between 2003 and 2014, he played in nearly 100 matches and two World Cups for the Uruguay national team. As team captain, Diego led the Uruguayan team to a fourth-place finish in the 2010 World Cup and first place in the 2011 Copa América. At the 2010 World Cup, he was named best team captain.
Though Diego’s days in club sports began with Uruguayan teams, he quickly went global. He played for São Paulo F.C. in Brazil for three years and then spent five years with Fenerbahçe in Istanbul, Turkey. Shorter spells followed with various European teams: Paris Saint-Germain in France; Málaga Club de Fútbol in Andalusia, Spain; England’s West Bromwich Albion; and Sweden’s BK Häcken. Diego wound down his career on the field again in South America, with Cerro Porteño of Paraguay and ultimately in a second stint with São Paulo.
Where Is Diego Lugano Now?
After playing his last season at São Paulo, Diego accepted the position of director of institutional relations with the club. In his private life, he has supported numerous causes that defend the rights of children.
Though he has spent his life in a professional spotlight, Diego feels deeply the value of family. During his years playing for clubs around the world, he brought his wife, Karina, and their three children with him. He recalls their years in Istanbul as some of the best in his life because two of their children were born there.
Don’t Miss Diego Lugano at RootsTech Connect 2021
Visit the RootsTech Connect Website to view to Diego’s talk—as well as hundreds of other inspiring sessions that can help you discover and celebrate your own heritage.
RootsTech 2021 Keynote Speakers
What is RootsTech?
RootsTech is a place to learn, be inspired, and make connections through family history. Hosted by FamilySearch and sponsored by other leading genealogy organizations, we have hundreds of expert classes, tips and tricks videos, and inspiring stories that can help you experience family history like never before. Visit our on-demand learning library or make plans to join us for our next virtual or in-person conference event.
