Italian MotoGP legends Valentino Rossi, Pecco Bagnaia, and Marco Bezzecchi have been honored as Ambassadors of Sports Diplomacy by the Italian government, recognizing their contributions to promoting Italy’s global image through motorsport.
The prestigious titles were presented by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during the launch of the “Moto d’Italia – Cultura oltre la pista” initiative at Mugello. Current MotoGP stars Bezzecchi and Bagnaia joined iconic figures like Giacomo Agostini and Max Biaggi in receiving the accolade. The initiative aims to showcase Italian industrial, technological, sporting, and cultural excellence, leveraging motorsport as a tool for sports diplomacy.
Bezzecchi, who spoke via videoconference after recent surgery, expressed his pride: “I am very proud to have been appointed Sports Diplomacy Ambassador, and I would like to thank Minister Antonio Tajani for entrusting me with this role. It is a unique responsibility, and I will do my utmost to live up to it. Winning at Mugello, on an Italian motorbike with a factory team, and carrying the Italian flag onto the podium was an incredible feeling.”
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola emphasized the honor for the Piaggio Group, highlighting the global prestige of brands like Vespa, Moto Guzzi, and Aprilia. “Aprilia, like the entire Piaggio Group, embodies Italian spirit around the world, and we are extremely proud of this. We have a great responsibility, but we are also extraordinarily fortunate to be based in the most beautiful country in the world.”
The recognition underlines the role of Italian MotoGP stars in championing the nation’s excellence and passion, both on and off the track.
