Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini says the Silician derby is fast becoming one of the big days of Italian football.
The Rosanero face Catania this weekend.
"It is a wonderful derby, second only to Milan and comparable with Genoa and Rome," declared Zamparini.
"In my view it is the best of recent years, as both teams are strong and galvanized by the success earned up until now.
"I hope it will be played in the utmost sporting spirit of the game. May the best team win."