Analysis-What's next for Italy's coalition after Berlusconi's death?

FILE PHOTO: Brothers of Italy leader Giorgia Meloni speaks to the media as she stands next to Forza Italia leader and former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, following a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, Italy October 21, 2022. REUTERS/Yara Nardi/File Photo

ROME (Reuters) - The death of Silvio Berlusconi will send shockwaves through his Forza Italia party, a member of Italy's right-wing coalition, but analysts believe it could provide a chance for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to strengthen her leadership.

Media tycoon Berlusconi founded Forza Italia when he entered politics in 1994. The party always relied on his charismatic leadership, and saw its support dwindle in recent years as health issues limited his political commitment.