Italy has a long and proud history of motorcycle racing, and its riders have often been at the forefront of the sport. From the legendary Giacomo Agostini to Valentino Rossi, Italy’s motorcyclists have consistently been among the world’s best.
We will take a look at some of the top Italian motorcycle racers of all time, and the amazing accomplishments they have achieved.
From their impressive records on the track to their achievements off the track, these riders have left an indelible mark on the sport and will be remembered for generations to come.
1. Valentino Rossi
Valentino Rossi is an iconic figure in the world of motorcycle racing. He is a former professional racer and has achieved an incredible nine-time World Championship.
His impressive career has earned him the nickname ‘The Doctor’, and he is seen as one of the greatest racers of all time by many. Some even go so far as to call him the greatest ever. His success is no small feat.
He has been competing in motorcycle racing since he was a child and has since built a hugely successful career.
His accomplishments include winning the premier class of the Grand Prix motorcycle racing championship seven times, the 125cc Grand Prix championship twice, and the 250cc Grand Prix championship once.
He is also the only rider to have both won a 500cc Grand Prix and the MotoGP World Championship. Not only has Rossi had incredible success on the track, but he is also very popular amongst the fans.
He has a strong and loyal fanbase, and his racing style is an exciting blend of daring moves and calculated precision.
His quick reactions and ability to adapt to different situations have made him a thrilling racer to watch. Overall, Valentino Rossi is an incredible motorcyclist who has achieved remarkable success in his career and has become a legendary figure in the world of motorcycle racing.
His achievements have earned him the admiration and respect of fans and racers alike, and he will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time.
2. Giacomo Agostini
Giacomo Agostini is a legendary Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. Commonly known as Ago, he is renowned for his success on the track, having achieved an impressive total of 122 Grand Prix wins and 15 World Championship titles.
His impressive tally of wins included 68 victories in the 500 cc class and 8 titles in the same class.
The remaining wins and titles were won in the 350 cc class. Agostini’s accomplishments set him apart from other Grand Prix racers, as he was able to consistently win at the highest level for a long period of time.
His success was testament to his skill and dedication to the sport, with his impressive total of wins and titles cementing his place in the history books.
3. Marco Lucchinelli
Marco Lucchinelli is a legendary figure in the world of MotoGP racing. He is a former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who achieved great success in his career. In 1981 he became the FIM Road Racing World Champion, riding a Suzuki.
His championship win was a major milestone in his career, and it was an impressive achievement that has since earned him the title of MotoGP Legend. Lucchinelli was known for his impressive skills on the track, as well as his strong competitive spirit.
He was an incredibly talented rider, and his success on the track was evidence of his skill.
His championship win in 1981 was a testament to his dedication and hard work, and it was a major accomplishment that helped him to become a MotoGP Legend. Lucchinelli’s accomplishments throughout his career are a testament to his passion for the sport and his commitment to excellence.
He is a role model for anyone wanting to pursue a career in MotoGP racing, and his achievement in becoming a MotoGP Legend is something that will be remembered for many years to come.
4. Max Biaggi
Massimiliano “Max” Biaggi is an Italian former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who was incredibly successful in his career.
He managed to win an impressive six World Championships, four of which were in the 250 cc road race category and two in the World Superbike category.
This makes him one of only two riders to have won championships in both disciplines. Biaggi began his professional racing career in the early 90s, competing in the 125 and 250 cc classes.
His success in the 250 cc class was instant, as he won back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995.
He continued to race in the 250 cc class for several more years and was able to add two more championships to his tally in 1998 and 1999. His success in the 250 cc class led him to move up to the 500 cc class in 2000.
He had mixed results in the 500 cc class and eventually decided to switch to World Superbikes in 2002. His skill in the Superbikes was immediately apparent as he managed to win the championship in his first year in the class.
He then went on to win a second championship in 2004. Max Biaggi’s six World Championships are an impressive feat of racing skill and determination, making him one of the greatest riders of all time.
His success in both the 250 cc and World Superbike classes is unmatched, with only one other rider having achieved the feat. His legacy in the world of motorcycle racing will live on for many years to come.
5. Carlo Ubbiali
Carlo Ubbiali was an Italian motorcycle racer who achieved tremendous success during the 1950s. He was considered a dominant force in the smaller classes of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, winning an impressive nine world titles in total.
Six of these were in the 125cc class, while the other three were in the 250cc class. Ubbiali’s achievements saw him become one of the most respected and celebrated figures in the world of motorcycling, and he paved the way for many riders who followed in his footsteps.
His incredible career is a testament to his skill, passion and dedication, and his legacy will continue to live on in the world of racing.
6. Andrea Dovizioso
Andrea Dovizioso is a former professional motorcycle racer from Italy. He was signed to the WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP Team in 2022 to compete in the MotoGP season. However, after the Misano round in September, Dovizioso announced his intended retirement from the sport.
This announcement came as a surprise to many of his fans, as Dovizioso had been a successful and popular racer in the MotoGP series. Prior to his retirement, Dovizioso had competed for a number of teams, including Ducati and Honda.
He was renowned for his consistent performance and skill on the track and had achieved numerous podium finishes throughout his career.
He was also a championship contender in the MotoGP season and was the runner-up in 2017 and 2018. Although Dovizioso is no longer competing in MotoGP, his legacy will live on in the sport.
He was an inspirational figure to many and will be remembered for his accomplishments on the track. Dovizioso will be dearly missed by his fans, who will no doubt wish him the very best for the future.
7. Marco Melandri
Marco Melandri is a retired Italian motorcycle road racer who has accomplished a great deal in the racing world. He is a five-time premier class race winner and was the 2002 250 cc World Champion. He is also a runner-up in the 125 cc, MotoGP and Superbike World Championships.
Melandri competed in the MotoGP class from 2003 to 2010, before making a brief return with Aprilia in 2015. His impressive list of accomplishments on the race track have earned him the respect of fellow racers and fans alike.
Melandri is a prime example of a successful and dedicated athlete who has achieved success through hard work and perseverance.
8. Franco Uncini
Franco Uncini is an Italian former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He has made significant contributions to the world of motorcycle racing, having won the 1982 FIM Road Racing World Championship while riding a Suzuki.
His achievements in the sport have earned him a place in the F.I.M. MotoGP Hall of Fame, where he was inducted in 2016. Uncini has long been a respected name in the motorcycle racing world.
He first began competing in the Grand Prix in the 1970s and was noted for his skill and speed. He was able to consistently finish in the top five in various races, and this led him to the 1982 FIM Road Racing World Championship.
During this championship, he rode a Suzuki and managed to take the title, beating out a number of other contenders. Since his championship win, Uncini has become even more well-known in the motorcycle racing world. He has been inducted into the F.I.M.
MotoGP Hall of Fame, is a prestigious honor bestowed on only the best of the best in the sport.
He joins an esteemed group of riders, including Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, and Valentino Rossi. The accomplishments of Franco Uncini in the world of motorcycle racing cannot be understated. His skill, speed, and dedication to the sport have earned him a place in the F.I.M.
MotoGP Hall of Fame, where he will be remembered for his achievements for many years to come.
9. Pier Paolo Bianchi
Pier Paolo Bianchi is a renowned Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racing World Champion. He was the first Italian to become a motorcycle world champion. He achieved this feat by becoming the FIM 125 cc world champion in both 1976 and 1977.
He was successful in defending his title for the third time when he won the 125 championship in 1980 on a MBA bike. Bianchi was an ambitious racer and was known for his exceptional riding style. He was an expert in the art of cornering and had a great ability to read the track.
This enabled him to stay ahead of the competition and win multiple titles. His success was achieved through hard work and dedication.
He was also known for his determination and discipline, which he used to focus on his racing career. Throughout his career, Bianchi raced in various international championships and won numerous titles. He was a popular figure in the racing world and was admired by many.
He was also an inspiration to aspiring racers who wanted to achieve success in the sport. Pier Paolo Bianchi’s legacy as a Grand Prix motorcycle road racing champion will never be forgotten.
He left a lasting impression on the sport and will be remembered for his remarkable achievements. He was a true champion and his successes will continue to inspire racers for generations to come.
10. Loris Capirossi
Loris Capirossi is an Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He was active in the Grand Prix racing scene between 1990 and 2011, during which time he achieved nine Premier Class race wins.
After his retirement from racing, he took on the role of Safety Advisor to Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of Grand Prix motorcycle racing. As a professional racer, Loris Capirossi was an accomplished rider.
He started his career in 1990 in the 125cc class and moved up to the 250cc class in 1993. During this time period, he won three 125cc races and two 250cc races. He then moved up to the 500cc class in 1996 and achieved four race wins in the premier class.
Throughout his career, Loris Capirossi was a respected and admired competitor. He was known for his aggressive riding style and his ability to come out on top in difficult situations.
He was also a major contributor to the development of safety standards in motorcycle racing. After his retirement from professional racing, Loris Capirossi was offered the role of Safety Advisor to Dorna Sports.
In this role, he is responsible for ensuring the safety of riders at Grand Prix events. He also provides guidance to riders on how to best protect themselves when competing.
By working with Dorna Sports, Loris Capirossi continues to make a positive impact on the sport of Grand Prix motorcycle racing.
11. Bruno Ruffo
Bruno Ruffo was a talented and successful Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. Born in Verona, he was widely regarded as one of the most successful racers of his time. He achieved three Grand Prix World Championships throughout his career.
In 1949, he achieved his first championship title as he won the inaugural 250cc World Championship, riding for the Italian Moto Guzzi factory. This victory marked the start of his successful racing career, and he was praised for his impressive skill and determination.
His victories not only showed his immense talent but also demonstrated the excellence of Italian motorcycle racing. His achievements have since been remembered and celebrated as a symbol of success and determination.
12. Luca Cadalora
Luca Cadalora is a legendary former professional motorcycle racer from Italy. He is widely recognized for his immense success in the sport, having won the 1986 125 cc World Championship, as well as the 1991 and 1992 250 cc World Championships.
He also achieved an impressive 8-time Premier Class race wins over the course of his career, which spanned from 1984 to 2000. Cadalora’s remarkable accomplishments have earned him a place among some of the greatest motorcycle racers in history.
He remains a beloved figure in the world of motorcycling, both in his native Italy and beyond. During his professional career, Cadalora competed in several Grand Prix races, displaying an undeniable talent for the sport.
His wins have solidified his place in the motorcycle racing hall of fame and will be remembered for years to come.
13. Tarquinio Provini
Tarquinio Provini was an Italian professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He had a successful career that spanned over two decades and is best remembered for his accomplishments in the world of road racing.
Provini was a two-time world champion, a four-time Isle of Man TT winner, and won thirteen Italian national championships throughout his career. Provini’s first world championship victory came in 1961 when he won the 350cc class of the Grand Prix world championship.
His second championship came in 1962 when he won the 250cc class.
After that, Provini continued to make a name for himself in the world of road racing, winning a total of four Isle of Man TTs between 1962 and 1965. In addition to his world championship and Isle of Man TT wins, Provini also had success in Italian national championships.
He won the Italian 250cc championship in 1964 and 1965, and the 350cc championship in 1965. He also won the Italian sidecar championship in 1964 and 1965.
In total, Provini won thirteen Italian national championships throughout his career. Tarquinio Provini’s accomplishments speak for themselves. He was a two-time world champion in road racing, a four-time Isle of Man TT winner, and a thirteen-time Italian national champion.
His legacy will live on in the minds of motorbike racing fans for many years to come.
14. Eugenio Lazzarini
Eugenio Lazzarini is an Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racing World Champion. Lazzarini started his Grand Prix career in 1969 in the 250 class, riding a Benelli.
After four years of racing at the Grand Prix level, he achieved his first Grand Prix win in 1973 at the Dutch TT on a Maico.
This success was followed by Lazzarini continuing to race in the 125cc class and by 1978, he had captured the FIM 125cc World Championship riding an MBA motorcycle.
Lazzarini’s success at the Grand Prix level earned him the title of World Champion, and he is still remembered today as one of the greatest racers in Grand Prix history.
15. Fausto Gresini
Fausto Gresini was a major player in the world of motorcycle road racing. He was an Italian professional racer and racing team manager who competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing from 1983 to 1994.
During his racing career, he achieved great success, becoming a two-time 125cc world champion, riding for the Garelli factory racing team. Gresini raced across multiple circuits throughout Europe, including the Grand Prix circuit, which included the likes of the Italian Grand Prix, the German Grand Prix, the Dutch Grand Prix and the Belgian Grand Prix.
He won his first 125cc World Championship in 1989 and went on to win the championship again in 1991.
During his racing career, he also won multiple races at the Grand Prix of Nations, including the Dutch Grand Prix in 1993 and the Belgian Grand Prix in 1994. Gresini also had a successful career as a racing team manager, managing a number of different teams.
He managed the Gresini Racing team between 1996 and 2004 and then went on to manage the San Carlo Honda Gresini team in 2005.
He also served as the Technical Director of the MotoGP Team from 2009 to 2012. Gresini was widely respected for his immense contributions to the world of motorcycle racing.
His achievements as a racer and team manager were celebrated across the world, and his death in 2021 at the age of 60 was mourned by many. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest figures in motorcycle racing.
16. Enea Bastianini
Enea Bastianini is an Italian motorcycle racer currently competing in the MotoGP class of the Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championship. Nicknamed “La Bestia” (The Beast), Bastianini is racing for the Ducati Lenovo Team.
He had a successful 2020 season, winning the Moto2 World Championship. This marked his first world championship title, making him the fourth Italian rider in history to become a world champion.
His victory was a remarkable feat for a 21-year-old, especially considering the tight competition in the Moto2 class.
Bastianini had been a consistent presence in the Moto2 class, having achieved a total of seven podium finishes in the three seasons prior to his championship win.
He is expected to be one of the riders to watch in the 2021 season, as he looks to continue his success in the MotoGP class.
17. Francesco Bagnaia
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia is an accomplished Grand Prix motorcycle racer from Italy. He is currently competing in the MotoGP for the Ducati Lenovo Team.
Bagnaia has achieved remarkable success in the sport, as he is the current MotoGP World Champion and a previous Moto2 World Champion. This makes him the first and only rider from Valentino Rossi’s VR46 Riders Academy to win a world title in the premier class.
He is the only racer to have achieved the feat from the academy, which was founded by the legendary nine-time MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi. Bagnaia’s journey to success has been remarkable. He was a promising young rider in the Moto2 class, winning several races and podiums.
He was then promoted to the MotoGP class in 2019, where he really began to shine, eventually winning the MotoGP World Championship in 2020. Bagnaia’s success has been attributed to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
He is known for his meticulous preparation and willingness to go the extra mile to refine his skills. He has shown great sportsmanship and commitment to his team, and his success is a testament to those qualities.
Bagnaia is a true inspiration to aspiring racers, as he has shown that, with enough hard work and dedication, one can reach the pinnacle of success. His story is an example of how talent, hard work, and perseverance can pay off in the world of motorsports.
18. Enrico Lorenzetti
Enrico Lorenzetti was an accomplished Italian professional Grand Prix motorcycle racer who competed in the 1940s and 1950s. His career began in the 1949 season in which he rode a 500 cc Moto Guzzi and finished eighth overall, earning 7 points.
Despite being a talented and experienced rider, he was not able to beat the winner of the season, Johnny Lockett. Nonetheless, he was back on the track in 1952 and was able to achieve the highest success in his career by earning the 250 cc World Championship for Moto Guzzi.
This victory was a testament to his skill and determination, as well as a milestone in his racing career. Lorenzetti was celebrated for his accomplishments and was an inspiring example of strength and perseverance in the face of tough competition.
19. Franco Morbidelli
Franco Morbidelli is an Italian professional motorcycle racer who is currently competing in the MotoGP series. He is riding for the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
Morbidelli has achieved several accolades during his career, most notably winning the 2013 European Superstock 600 Championship and the 2017 Moto2 World Championship. One of the most successful Italian riders, Morbidelli has shown consistency throughout his racing career.
He was crowned champion of the European Superstock 600 Championship in 2013, cementing his place in the world of racing.
He continued to prove his mettle in the Moto2 World Championship in 2017 when he was crowned champion after a long and hard-fought season. Morbidelli now competes in the MotoGP series, where he is currently part of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
As a rider for this team, he has the support of the leading motorcycle manufacturer in the world and is consistently pushing himself to the limit.
With his impressive track record, he is a fierce competitor in the MotoGP series and is always looking to improve his performance. Morbidelli is a talented rider who has proven himself in both the European Superstock 600 Championship and the Moto2 World Championship.
His success in these two championships has made him a force to be reckoned with in the MotoGP series and he is sure to be a great addition to the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
With his determination and drive, Morbidelli is sure to bring the team great success in the coming years.
20. Nello Pagani
Cirillo Pagani, also known as “Nello”, was a remarkable Italian motorcyclist and Formula One driver. Born in Milan, Lombardy, he had a career that lasted from 1928 to 1955.
During this time, he achieved a great accomplishment: becoming the first 125cc World Champion in 1949, the inaugural year of the championship. Pagani was a highly-regarded driver in the racing world.
He was known for his consistent success on the track and for his technical ability, often pushing the limits of the vehicles he drove. His skill and determination made him a champion in the eyes of many. Sadly, Pagani passed away in Bresso in 1955, but his legacy still lives on.
He is remembered for his contributions to the racing world and for being the first 125cc World Champion in 1949. He is an example to aspiring drivers of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
21. Dario Ambrosini
Dario Ambrosini was an accomplished Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He was part of the Benelli factory team, representing the company in international races.
In 1949, Ambrosini achieved a great milestone in his career when he competed in the inaugural FIM 250cc world championship. He put up a great fight against Bruno Ruffo, a fellow Italian racer, and ultimately finished in second place.
This achievement was a testament to Ambrosini’s skill as a racer and his dedication to the sport. He is remembered as one of the greatest Italian motorcycle road racers in history.
22. Mario Lega
Mario Lega was an Italian motorcycle racer who had a successful career in Grand Prix road racing. He was part of the Morbidelli factory racing team and won the FIM 250cc world championship in 1977.
Lega was known for his skill and consistency on the track, often finishing in the top three of races. During his career, he won numerous races and championships, including the 250cc World Championship. Lega’s success was not just limited to the racetrack.
He was also a successful motorcycle engineer, helping to develop and refine Morbidelli’s bikes.
His knowledge of the bikes and the sport allowed him to be a successful racer, as well as a mentor for his team. Lega’s career was cut short in 1978 when he suffered a serious back injury.
The injury meant he was unable to race again, but he continued to be involved in the sport as a mentor for his team.
He was a respected figure in the racing world, and his legacy lives on in the form of the Morbidelli team. Lega’s accomplishments are an inspiration to all motorcycle racers. His commitment to the sport and the skill he displayed on the track are a testament to his legacy.
Mario Lega was a champion in every sense of the word, and his name will always be remembered as one of the greats of the sport.
23. Umberto Masetti
Umberto Masetti was an extraordinary Italian motorcyclist. He was a two-time World Champion Grand Prix motorcycle road racer, and his achievements made him a legend in his native country.
In 1950, Masetti achieved a remarkable feat: he became the first Italian to win the 500cc World Championship. This victory was a symbol of hope and pride for the entire nation, as it showed that Italy was capable of achieving greatness in the sport of motorcycling.
Masetti’s success was a catalyst for greater success among Italian racers, as many more Italian riders followed in his footsteps and went on to become world champions. His legacy lives on to this day, and he is remembered as one of the greatest Italian riders of all time.
24. Paolo Pileri
Paolo Pileri was an important figure in Italian motorcycle racing. He was a professional racer and team manager, competing in the world championships of Grand Prix road racing from 1973 to 1979.
Pileri was highly successful in his career, winning the FIM 125cc world championship in 1975.
This was a great accomplishment for Pileri, as it showed that he was one of the best racers in the world in his class. Pileri dedicated his life to racing and his skill and determination made him a world champion.
He was a respected figure in the racing community, known for his commitment to the sport.
His team management also showed his capabilities as a leader, as he was able to lead a successful racing team. Paolo Pileri was a successful racer and manager, and his accomplishments will never be forgotten.
He was a great example for aspiring racers, and his legacy will live on in the history of motorcycle racing.
25. Roberto Locatelli
Roberto Locatelli is a former Italian motorcycle rider who achieved great success in his racing career.
He was born in Bergamo, Italy and started his professional racing career in 2000, when he won the 125cc World Championship.In 2007, Locatelli began competing in the 250cc World Championship with a Gilera motorcycle, but his career was cut short when he was severely injured during a practice session.
The crash resulted in a broken leg, a broken ankle, and a concussion, effectively ending his racing career. Despite the unfortunate end to his racing career, Locatelli is remembered as one of the most successful Italian motorcycle riders of all time.
26. Alessandro Gramigni
Alessandro Gramigni is an Italian former professional motorcycle racer who enjoyed a successful career in both Grand Prix motorcycle racing and the Superbike World Championship.
From 1990 to 1997, Gramigni competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing, and from 1998 to 2003, he was a competitor in the Superbike World Championship. Gramigni is most notable for winning the 1992 F.I.M. 125cc world championship.
This was a major accomplishment for Gramigni, as it marked the first time an Italian rider had won the prestigious title.
His success in the championship earned him recognition and respect from fellow competitors and fans alike and cemented his place in motorcycle racing history. The 1992 F.I.M.
125cc world championship was a particularly difficult and competitive competition, with many of the top riders in the world vying for the title. Gramigni’s victory was a testament to his commitment and skill as a racer, and it is something he looks back on with pride.
Alessandro Gramigni’s success in the F.I.M. 125cc world championship and other races throughout his career demonstrates his dedication to the sport and his love for racing.
His achievements have earned him a place among the greats of motorcycle racing, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of riders.
27. Libero Liberati
Libero Liberati was an Italian motorcycle racer who achieved great success and fame in his home country. Born in Terni, Italy, Liberati earned the title of Italian Champion of motorcycle racing in 1948.
This impressive accomplishment caught the attention of Moto Guzzi, an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, who invited him to race in the 500cc World Championship in 1950.
During this championship, Liberati only participated in a single race but it was enough to make a lasting impression and secure his place in motorcycle racing history.
Liberati went on to become the 1957 500cc Grand Prix World Champion, a title he would hold for the rest of his life as a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
28. Matteo Ferrari
Matteo Ferrari is an Italian motorcycle racer who competes in the FIM MotoE World Cup. He is currently riding aboard a Ducati V21L. In 2019, Ferrari became the first ever MotoE World Cup winner.
This was a remarkable accomplishment, as it marked the beginning of the championship’s history. Ferrari is now a world-renowned motorcycle racer, and his win stands as an example of the heights that can be achieved through determination and hard work.
He has become a beacon of hope for aspiring racers, showing them that anything is possible if they put their minds to it. Ferrari’s win has been an inspiration for many, and his story will continue to be told for years to come.
29. Loris Reggiani
Loris Reggiani is a former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer from Italy. He was a part of the Aprilia factory racing team. During his career, he raced on the world stage, competing in world championship events such as the 500cc World Championship and the 250cc World Championship.
He was one of the top riders in the world in his era, and he is remembered for his impressive results. Reggiani had a successful career, achieving several podium finishes and claiming numerous victories.
He won the 250cc World Championship in 1991 and the 500cc World Championship in 1993. He was also a four-time winner of the Italian Grand Prix, claiming victories in 1990, 1991, 1993, and 1994.
Reggiani was also a consistent finisher in the 500cc World Championship, finishing in the top ten throughout the 1990s. Throughout his career, Reggiani was a part of the Aprilia factory racing team.
He raced on the team’s bikes in the 250cc and 500cc World Championships and had a strong bond with the team.
He was a popular figure in the Italian racing scene, and he was known for his determined attitude and strong results. Reggiani retired from racing in 1999, but he has remained involved in the world of motorsports.
He has been a consultant for several teams, and he also works with young riders as a coach and mentor. He is an icon in the world of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, and his legacy lives on.
30. Renzo Pasolini
Renzo Pasolini, affectionately known as “Paso”, was a beloved Italian motorcycle road racer who competed in the FIM Grand Prix motorcycle racing world championships from 1964 to 1972.
Despite never winning a world championship, Pasolini was a very popular competitor due to his incredibly brave and passionate riding style.
He was known for taking risks and pushing himself to the limit, which endeared him to the crowd. Pasolini was born in Italy and started his racing career in 1964.
He quickly gained notoriety for his spirited and daring racing style, often taking chances and taking on the toughest courses with little to no regard for his own safety. He was willing to put it all on the line to win and was not afraid of hard work.
He was a risk-taker and had no fear of failure, which made him a fan favorite. Pasolini was also known for his loyalty and commitment to his team. He was always willing to put in extra effort to help his team succeed.
He was fiercely competitive and put in extra training and practice to make sure he was always at his best on race day.
He was a true team player and was always willing to help out his teammates. Though he never won a world championship, Pasolini’s fearless attitude and passionate style of riding will always be remembered. He was a true pioneer in the sport and set a standard for racers to follow.
He was an example of hard work, dedication, and never giving up. His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and racers alike.
31. Carlo Bandirola
Carlo Bandirola was a renowned Italian motorcycle racer who competed in the Grand Prix circuit. He had a successful career that spanned several decades, but his best years came in 1950 and 1955. In 1950, Bandirola was in top form and had a string of impressive results.
He was able to finish in the top five in all of the races he competed in. This success continued in 1955 when he achieved a remarkable fifth-place finish in the 500cc World Championship. This impressive feat cemented his legacy as one of the greats of Italian motorcycle racing.
Bandirola was not only a great rider, but he was also a great ambassador for the sport. He was passionate about the sport and dedicated himself to making it better. His influence can still be seen today in the Grand Prix circuit.
32. Marco Bezzecchi
Marco Bezzecchi is an up-and-coming Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer with a bright future in the MotoGP World Championship. He currently competes in the championship for the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, a team owned by legendary Italian racer Valentino Rossi.
Bezzecchi, who hails from the town of San Giovanni in Persiceto, has been racing in the championship since 2021 and has already made a name for himself. He has had several impressive results, including a podium finish at the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix.
Bezzecchi is currently competing in the 2023 MotoGP World Championship and is looking to continue his success and take his racing career to the next level. With his dedication and talent, Bezzecchi is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the championship for years to come.
33. Luca Boscoscuro
Luca Boscoscuro is a former Italian road racer who participated in Grand Prix races.
He achieved notable success in 1995 when he was crowned the European Champion in the 250cc class, a feat that would set the tone for his future racing career.In 1996, Boscoscuro had his most successful year in the world championships, finishing tenth in the 250cc class and winning the IRTA CUP.
This success further cemented his reputation as one of the top racers in the sport. The European Champion title was a significant milestone for Boscoscuro, as it demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
His performance in the world championships in 1996 further demonstrated his talent, as he was able to fight for a top 10 position and win the IRTA CUP. Boscoscuro’s success in the world championships and as the European Champion has made him one of the most recognizable racers in the sport.
His achievements have served as an inspiration to other racers, as it has shown them that with hard work and dedication they can achieve great success.
34. Gianfranco Bonera
Gianfranco Bonera was a successful Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer in the 1970s. He had a particularly impressive year in 1974, where he achieved his greatest success. That year, he won the Nations Grand Prix, a prestigious race held in his native Italy.
He also finished second in the 500cc world championship, just behind his teammate Phil Read. The two men were riding for MV Agusta, one of the most successful teams of that era.
Bonera’s success in 1974 set him up for a long career in the sport, and he went on to race in Grand Prix events until the mid-1980s. He also achieved further success in endurance racing, which he continued to race in until the late 1990s.
Overall, Gianfranco Bonera was a very successful racer, and his 1974 season was instrumental in launching his career.
35. Franco Battaini
Franco Battaini is an accomplished Italian motorcycle road racer. His best years were in 2002 and 2003, when he achieved a sixth-place finish in the 250cc world championship.
Following this success, in 2005 Battaini decided to take on a new challenge by competing in MotoGP, which is the premier class of motorcycle racing. He was riding the Blata WCM, but unfortunately it was a season of disappointment.
His best performance was a 11th-place finish in Japan, and many riders had retired from the race before him. This result highlights the difficulty of the MotoGP class and the challenge that Battaini faced in his attempt to compete against the world’s best riders.
Despite his lack of success, Battaini’s determination and ambition to test himself at the highest level is commendable and worthy of recognition.
36. Leandro Becheroni
Leandro Becheroni was an Italian professional motorcycle road racer who competed in the Grand Prix World Championship. He was born in Bologna, Italy in 1954 and went on to become one of the most successful riders in the world.
Becheroni won the world championship twice in 1985 and 1987, and he also won the prestigious Isle of Man TT race in 1985. He has also been credited with revolutionizing the sport of motorcycle racing in Italy through his daring and aggressive riding style.
Becheroni was a celebrated rider in his native Italy, and he has been inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame. He passed away in a racing accident in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of skill and bravery in the world of motorcycle racing.
37. Lorenzo Baldassarri
Lorenzo Baldassarri is an Italian motorcycle racer from the Grand Prix racing circuit. He is currently competing in the 2023 Superbike World Championship under the team GMT94 Yamaha. Baldassarri began his career in the 125cc class of the Italian CIV championship in 2010.
After several seasons of success in the CIV Championship, he moved up to the CEV Moto2 Championship in 2014. In his first season in the CEV Moto2, he was crowned champion.
Baldassarri then moved on to the FIM Moto2 World Championship in 2015 and has since been competing in the series. In 2020, Baldassarri made the switch to the Superbike World Championship with the GMT94 Yamaha team.
He has already achieved success in the series, taking three podium finishes in his first two seasons, and is looking to continue his success in the 2023 season.
38. Otello Buscherini
Otello Buscherini was a motorcycle road racer from Italy who achieved success in the Grand Prix circuit. He had his most successful years in 1973 and 1974, winning two Grand Prix races and finishing fourth in the 125cc world championship in 1974.
Sadly, his career ended in tragedy when he was killed in a crash at the 1976 Nations Grand Prix at Mugello. Buscherini was an incredibly talented rider, and his career was cut short far too soon.
He was a respected figure in the racing world and his contribution to the sport will not soon be forgotten.
39. Piergiorgio Bontempi
Piergiorgio Bontempi is an Italian former professional motorcycle racer who was born in Ancona. He raced in the Superbike World Championship for more than a decade.
During his time as a Superbike racer, Bontempi also competed in the Supersport World Championship, where he achieved a notable win at the Nürburgring in 1999.
This was a significant accomplishment that earned him recognition in the racing world. Bontempi was a highly successful racer throughout his career. He earned a number of podium finishes in the Superbike World Championship.
He also won several races in the Supersport World Championship, including the one at the Nürburgring in 1999.
This victory showcased his skill and talent as a racer and made him a respected name in the sport. His success on the track earned him respect from fellow racers and fans alike. He was known for his skillful riding and competitive spirit.
Bontempi was a great example of how dedication and hard work can pay off in the end. He was able to achieve his goals and become a successful professional racer. Piergiorgio Bontempi’s legacy as a motorcycle racer will live on.
His victories in the Superbike and Supersport World Championships will be remembered for years to come. His tenacity and determination to succeed are a great example for aspiring racers. He is an inspiration for many and a reminder of the power of dedication and hard work.
40. Domenico Brigaglia
Domenico Brigaglia was a successful Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. His top year of racing was 1986, where he achieved great success. During this year, Domenico won the 125cc Belgian Grand Prix, a feat that he was immensely proud of.
He also finished in third place in the 125cc world championship, a remarkable achievement that few racers can boast of. Brigaglia’s success in 1986 made him a well-known figure in the world of motorcycle racing, and he has since gone on to become an icon in the sport.
His accomplishments that year were a testament to his skill and determination, and a reminder of what can be achieved when one puts their mind to it.
41. Nicolò Bulega
Nicolò Jarod Bulega is an Italian motorcycle racer who has achieved great success in the world of motorcycle racing. He is currently competing in the Supersport World Championship for Aruba. it Racing WorldSSP Team by Feel Racing.
Before this, he competed in the CEV Moto3 Championship in 2014 and 2015, where he made history by becoming the Moto3 Junior World Champion in 2015.
His achievements have established him as a true talent in the sport and have made him an inspiration for other aspiring motorcycle racers. His determination and hard work have paid off, making him a respected figure in the racing world.
42. Andrea Ballerini
Andrea Ballerini is an Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who was born in Florence. Throughout his career, he had many accomplishments, the most impressive being his victory in the European 125cc road racing championship in 2001.
His best year in the world championships was in 2006 when he finished in an impressive 17th place in the 125cc world championship. This impressive finish was a testament to Ballerini’s outstanding talent and hard work.
He was able to compete with the best in the world and prove his worth among the top racers in the sport. Ballerini’s success is a testament to the dedication and determination that he had to become the best.
His dedication and hard work has been recognized and appreciated in the world of Grand Prix motorcycle road racing.
43. Vittorio Brambilla
Vittorio Brambilla was an Italian Formula One driver who raced for three different teams: March, Surtees and Alfa Romeo. He was particularly skilled at driving in wet conditions, which earned him the nickname of “The Monza Gorilla”.
This title was a reference to his often overly aggressive driving style and his macho attitude. Brambilla was known for pushing his car to the absolute limit, regardless of the weather conditions.
He was an exceptionally brave driver who could handle the most extreme conditions with relative ease. His determination and skill earned him respect from both his fans and fellow drivers.
Brambilla’s tenacity and courage earned him the nickname of “The Monza Gorilla”, which has since become synonymous with his name.
44. Ernesto Brambilla
Ernesto Brambilla, more commonly known as Tino, was a talented Italian race car and motorcycle driver. He was born in Monza and was the brother of another renowned driver, Vittorio Brambilla.
Tino’s career in racing began in 1959 when he competed in the 350cc Grand Prix motorcycle season. His first season was quite successful, as he finished in 10th place overall.
He was determined to improve upon his results and two years later, in 1961, Tino completed the 350cc class again and finished in the same 10th place he had achieved in his first season.
His impressive results in the Grand Prix motorcycle season demonstrated his skill and dedication to the sport.
45. Gino Borsoi
Gino Borsoi is an accomplished former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who has since retired from the sport. He is currently employed as team manager for Prima Pramac Racing, in charge of the team’s operations and strategies.
Prior to this role, Borsoi was the Sporting Director of the Aspar Team, responsible for the management and supervision of the team’s performance in the racing world.
He is highly respected and well-known within the motorcycle racing community for his vast experience and knowledge. Borsoi’s passion for the sport has seen him transition from a successful racer to an invaluable asset in the racing team management.
Conclusion
Italy has a rich history of motorcycle racing, and many of the world’s best motorcycle racers have called it their home.
From Giacomo Agostini and Valentino Rossi to Marco Melandri and Andrea Dovizioso, Italy has produced some of the greatest and most successful riders in the sport.
With a long history of innovation in the industry, the country is sure to continue producing some of the world’s top riders for many years to come.
