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5d ago

Tilman Fertitta Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino

The billionaire businessman and Houston Rockets owner will step down from key leadership roles to focus on strengthening U.S.-Italy trade relations.

University of Houston President Renu Khator talks with the U of H board of regents Chairman Tilman Fertitta at the university on Feb. 21, 2024.

Overview

  • The U.S. Senate confirmed Tilman Fertitta as Ambassador to Italy and San Marino with an 82–15 vote on April 29, 2025.
  • Fertitta has committed to resigning as CEO of Landry's, Inc. and chair of the University of Houston System Board of Regents to comply with ethics rules.
  • While stepping away from operational roles, Fertitta will retain passive ownership of the Houston Rockets during his ambassadorship.
  • At his Senate confirmation hearing, Fertitta emphasized plans to expand U.S.-Italy trade and address the $43 billion trade deficit.
  • Fertitta, of Sicilian descent, highlighted his personal ties to Italian culture and aims to leverage his entrepreneurial background in diplomacy.