Lustrinelli is one of those rare coaches who can simultaneously inspire, provoke, and entertain. While other coaches reach for tactical boards, he would carry a giant picture of a lion into the locker room before games. His players immediately understood: "We may not be the biggest. But we want to be the kings of the league."
This mix of self-irony, courage, and conviction runs throughout his career. His contract extension in 2024 became legendary: Still in the Challenge League, Lustrinelli had a championship bonus for a Super League title written into the contract. A detail many likely chuckled at back then – and which now seems almost like a perfect punchline.
Those who encounter Mauro Lustrinelli quickly notice: This man thinks differently. He talks about football like others talk about cinema or music. Sometimes he philosophizes about lions, mentality, and energy, sometimes he explains why a small "cunning moment" can sometimes be match-deciding. Even his tantrums on the sidelines are partially consciously staged, he recently said with a laugh: "What message do I give when suddenly my jacket is gone?"
And of course, his famous "naughty chap" mentality fits perfectly in Arosa. Even as a player, Lustrinelli created unforgettable scenes – like the legendary card game celebration in the center circle. Today, as a coach, he excites with pointed statements, surprising ideas, and energy that is infectious.
Mauro Lustrinelli shows: Humor in top-level sport doesn't emerge just through quips but through personality, courage, and the ability to inspire people. This is exactly what the Arosa Humor Shovel represents.
Since 2009, a key part of the festival
The Arosa Humor Shovel has been honoring individuals since 2009 who have made an impression during the calendar year with their fine sense of humor. Honorees have come from politics, business, culture, society, or sports. In recent years, entrepreneurs like Sami Sawiris, Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, national ice hockey coach Patrick Fischer, or former Federal Councillors Doris Leuthard and Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf have been honored.
This winter, from December 3 to December 13, 2026, the Arosa Humor Festival will take place for the 35th time. "Originally conceived as a modest event to enliven the pre-season, it has developed into a prestigious event for the entire region, annually drawing around 20,000 people to the iconic festival tent next to Tschuggenhütte and generating over 15,000 overnight stays," says Tourism Director Roland Schuler.
Media Contact:
Marc Gooch
Head of Marketing and Communication
Member of the Executive Board
T +41 81 378 70 25
marc.gooch@arosa.swiss