Frascati (Rome), March 20, 2026 – The international scientific community mourns the passing of Professor Francesco Romanelli, President of DTT Scarl (Divertor Tokamak Test), who passed away this morning. A world-renowned physicist, Professor Romanelli was one of the most influential and visionary figures in magnetic confinement fusion research.

The DTT facility stands as one of the most advanced research infrastructures globally, designed to test diverse configurations of the "divertor"—the critical component responsible for managing the extreme heat exhaust within fusion reactors. The milestones achieved by DTT will be vital for the success of ITER and the design of DEMO, the first prototype reactor capable of providing clean, safe, and inexhaustible energy to the power grid.

Leading DTT Scarl since 2021, Professor Romanelli’s career was marked by prestigious international roles. Formerly the Director of JET (Joint European Torus) in the UK and Head of the ENEA Fusion Technical Unit, he played a pivotal role in defining the European Fusion Roadmap, shaping the scientific path to bringing "the energy of the stars" to Earth.

“In Francesco Romanelli, we lose not only a brilliant scientist but a leader who combined methodological rigor with unparalleled strategic vision,” stated the Board of Directors of DTT Scarl. “His unwavering commitment will remain the driving force behind our mission to complete the ambitious project he led.”

The funeral service will be held on Monday, March 23, at 11:00 AM at the Cathedral of San Pietro in Frascati. DTT Scarl expresses its deepest condolences and stands in solidarity with his family during this time of grief.