AC Chievo Verona (commonly known as ChievoVerona or simply Chievo) is an Italian football club based in the Chievo suburb of Verona, Veneto. Founded in 1929, it became famous as one of Italian football's greatest underdog stories, rising from the lowest amateur levels to Serie A and even European competitions.
After years of financial strain and on-field struggles, Chievo were relegated from Serie A at the end of the 2018–19 season. They spent two seasons in Serie B but faced mounting debts and irregularities.
In 2021, the club failed to meet Serie B's financial solvency criteria, leading to exclusion from professional football. Appeals failed, and on 24 August 2021, the original AC ChievoVerona was officially dissolved/wound up after failing to find a buyer or investor
Former Chievo captain and icon Sergio Pellissier stepped in to preserve the legacy.
He founded FC Clivense in August 2021, starting from the very bottom of the Italian pyramid (Terza Categoria / 9th tier or similar regional amateur levels).Clivense achieved rapid promotions through fan support and smart management.
In May 2024, Pellissier and stakeholders acquired the original club's naming rights, logo, and branding at auction for around €330,000.
The club formally rebranded as AC ChievoVerona in 2024, becoming the legal and spiritual heir while keepin yellow-and-blue colors in some contexts (though white and blue are also associated).