The visit by Italian football team Milan has given the perfect example to the Malta Tourism Authority as to how Malta should be branded.

Millions of liri have been used over the past years to promote Malta abroad, but it only took a visit by a foreign team to put Malta in the headlines, at least in Italy.

From weeks before the event, Malta was being mentioned on Italian TV stations and in newspapers. And, over the past days, during the team’s visit here, Malta has become a household name on Italian media.

The fact that Milan officials, including coach Carlo Ancelotti, have been so overwhelmed by the enthusiasm showed by the fans – and their good behaviour – and have expressed their appreciation for the hospitality shown by the Maltese is also a feather in our cap.

It would have cost the MTA millions to give the same exposure to Malta as the Milan visit has done.

Well done to Birkirkara FC and let us hope that in the future other clubs take the cue. For the good of Malta.

Michael Camilleri

Paola