[1][2][3] Bacigalupo was called up in the Italy national team five times between 1947 and 1949, making his senior international debut in a 3–1 win over Czechoslovakia on 14 December 1947.

A precocious talent, he was known for his strong physique, reactions and excellent positional sense, as well as his athletic diving saves.

In addition to being an outstanding shot-stopper, he was also a dominant goalkeeper, known for his ability to come off his line to collect crosses.

[1] Valerio died in the Superga air disaster with most of the Grande Torino team, which also formed a large part in the Italy national team at the time, which was scheduled to take part at the 1950 FIFA World Cup.

[5] After his death, the club where he started his career, Savona, named its ground Stadio Valerio Bacigalupo in his honour.