The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially appointed several legendary figures and active MotoGP riders from the country as Sports Diplomacy Ambassadors. The designation was made directly by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during an event titled "Moto d’Italia – Culture Beyond the Track" held in Rome.
The racing figures receiving the honor include reigning world champion Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia, young rider Marco Bezzecchi, and three world motorcycle racing legends: Valentino Rossi, Giacomo Agostini, and Max Biaggi. They have been entrusted with carrying out a diplomatic mission and promoting Italy's positive values worldwide through sports.
Bagnaia expressed his pride in receiving this extraordinary award. The Ducati rider emphasized that sports serve as a universal instrument capable of bridging cultural divides through the values of sportsmanship, dedication, and respect.
However, not all honorees were able to attend the event in person. Valentino Rossi and Marco Bezzecchi joined the ceremony via video call. Bezzecchi is currently undergoing an intensive recovery process following shoulder surgery.
The ceremonial event was also attended by top executives from the Italian automotive and motorcycle racing industries, including Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, Aprilia Racing Director Massimo Rivola, MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, and President of the Italian Motorcycle Federation (FMI) Giovanni Copioli.
On the occasion, Claudio Domenicali stated that this moment was crucial for celebrating the major contribution of the motorcycle industry in promoting domestic products bearing the "Made in Italy" label. Ducati itself has recorded an impressive milestone by exporting more than 80 percent of its products to international markets.
Domenicali also gave special high praise to Pecco Bagnaia, who is now recorded as the most successful rider in Ducati's history with world titles, dozens of victories, and the most podiums for the Borgo Panigale manufacturer. Beyond the asphalt sector, appreciation was also extended to accomplished female motocross rider Kiara Fontanesi, representing the off-road racing sector.
