Famous Italian Motorcycle Racers

Valentino Rossi is an Italian racing legend and nine-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing World Champion. Known as The Doctor, he achieved seven premier class titles and holds the record for most premier class victories and podiums. Throughout his career, he competed with top teams like Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati, showcasing his talent with numerous race wins and pole positions. Inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame as a Legend, Rossi now owns and manages Racing Team VR46 while continuing to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

Giacomo Agostini is an Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer known as Ago. He achieved an impressive total of 122 Grand Prix wins and 15 World Championship titles throughout his 17-year career. His success includes 68 wins and 8 titles in the 500 cc class, with the remainder in the 350 cc class. Regarded as one of the greatest Grand Prix riders in history, Agostini was honored with inductions into the MotoGP Hall of Fame as a MotoGP Legend in 2000 and as an FIM Legend in 2010 for his exceptional motorcycling achievements.

Max Biaggi is an accomplished Italian former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer, renowned for securing six World Championships. He holds an impressive record of four 250 cc road race titles and two World Superbike Championships, making him one of the few riders to excel in both disciplines. As a brand ambassador for Aprilia motorcycles, Biaggi continues to contribute to the world of motorcycling. Additionally, he owns a Moto3 racing team and has received prestigious recognitions such as being named a FIM Road Racing Legend and inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame.

Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia is an accomplished Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer currently with the Ducati Lenovo Team in MotoGP. He has secured the prestigious MotoGP World Riders' Championship titles in both 2022 and 2023. Prior to his MotoGP success, Bagnaia also clinched the Moto2 World Championship in 2018. Notably, he stands out as the first rider from Valentino Rossi's VR46 Riders Academy to achieve a world title in the premier class. Bagnaia's victories have marked significant milestones, including the first Ducati rider World Championship in 15 years and the first for an Italian rider since Rossi in 2009.

Andrea Dovizioso is an accomplished Italian former professional motorcycle racer known for his successful career in MotoGP. He secured 15 victories and 62 podium finishes throughout his time in the sport. Dovizioso's career highlights include winning the 125cc World Championship in 2004 and finishing as the championship runner-up in the MotoGP class for three consecutive seasons. He is recognized for his strategic riding style, earning him the nickname 'the Professor'. Dovizioso's impressive performances spanned across three decades, making him a prominent figure in the MotoGP world.

Enea Bastianini, known as "La Bestia," is an Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer competing in the MotoGP class for the Ducati Lenovo Team. He achieved success by winning the 2020 Moto2 World Championship, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination on the racetrack. Bastianini has proven himself as a formidable competitor in the world of motorcycle racing, earning the respect of fans and fellow riders alike with his impressive performances and unwavering focus on achieving excellence in the sport.

Marco Simoncelli, known as Sic, was a renowned Italian motorcycle racer who competed in the MotoGP World Championship for a decade. Starting in the 125cc class, he later moved up to the 250cc class and claimed victory in the 2008 250cc World Championship. Transitioning to the top MotoGP class in 2010, he raced with the Honda Gresini Team. Sadly, his promising career was cut short when he tragically passed away in a racing accident at the 2011 Malaysian Grand Prix.

Mario Lega had a successful career as an Italian professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer. He achieved a significant milestone by winning the FIM 250cc world championship in 1977 while riding for the Morbidelli factory racing team. Throughout his career, Lega displayed exceptional talent and skill on the racetrack, earning recognition for his achievements. He competed in races under the points system implemented from 1969 onwards, showcasing his dedication and passion for motorcycle racing at the highest level.

Marco Melandri is an Italian retired motorcycle road racer known for his successful career in both MotoGP and the Superbike World Championship. He achieved notable success during his MotoGP years, winning races and finishing as a runner-up in various seasons. Melandri's best MotoGP seasons were in 2005 and 2006, where he won races and closely competed with his rival Nicky Hayden. He later transitioned to the Superbike World Championship, where he continued to excel before retiring in 2019, with a brief return in 2020.

Nello Pagani was an accomplished Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer and Formula One driver with a career spanning from 1928 to 1955. He made history by becoming the first 125cc World Champion in 1949. Pagani was known for his skill and competitiveness, narrowly missing out on a double championship that year. In addition to his success in motorcycle racing, he also achieved victories in car racing, including a notable win at the 1950 Swiss Grand Prix. Pagani's legacy extends to his role as the manager of the MV Agusta team and his influence on the racing world.

Walter Villa was a legendary Italian motorcycle road racer known for his quiet demeanor off the track and fierce competitiveness during races. He began his racing career at a young age and quickly made a name for himself, eventually joining the Aermacchi/Harley-Davidson racing team in the 1970s. Villa's exceptional skills and determination led him to win four Grand Prix motorcycle road racing world championships and multiple Italian Championships. After retiring, he continued to contribute to the motorsport industry as a trainer and participant in historic motor racing events.

Tarquinio Provini had a successful professional career as an Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer, achieving two world championship titles. Known for his exceptional skills, he also won the prestigious Isle of Man TT four times and secured victory in 13 Italian national championships. His remarkable achievements in road racing solidified his reputation as a talented and accomplished rider, making him a respected figure in the motorsport community. Provini's legacy continues to inspire aspiring racers and motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

Libero Liberati was an accomplished Italian motorcycle racer who achieved significant success in the 500cc Grand Prix World Championship. Beginning his career in the Italian championship, he later competed in the World Championship, securing his first points in 1953. In 1956, he claimed his first race victory in the 350cc class. His crowning achievement came in 1957 when he won the 500cc World Championship with four victories. Despite facing challenges with teams, he continued racing in different classes until his tragic accident in 1962.

Franco Morbidelli is a talented Italian Grand Prix motorcycle racer competing in the MotoGP class for the Prima Pramac Racing team. He has achieved notable success throughout his career, winning the 2013 European Superstock 600 Championship and the 2017 Moto2 World Championship. Morbidelli's skill and determination have propelled him to the top ranks of motorcycle racing, where he continues to impress fans and competitors alike with his speed and consistency on the track.

Pier Paolo Bianchi is an Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racing World Champion. He achieved success by winning three FIM 125 cc world championships in 1976, 1977, and 1980. Bianchi's impressive career spanned from 1969 to 1992, during which he displayed consistent excellence on the track. His skills and determination were evident through his multiple championship victories and noteworthy performances. Bianchi's professional life was defined by his remarkable achievements in the competitive world of motorcycle road racing, solidifying his legacy as a talented and accomplished racer.

Paolo Pileri was an Italian professional motorcycle racer and racing team manager. He competed in the Grand Prix road racing world championships from 1973 to 1979, winning the FIM 125cc world championship in 1975. Pileri began in motocross before transitioning to road racing in 1971. Joining the Morbidelli factory team, he achieved his first Grand Prix win at the 1975 125cc Spanish Grand Prix. Pileri won a total of 8 races and 20 podium finishes in his seven-year career before retiring in 1979. He later became a successful racing team manager, guiding riders such as Loris Capirossi and providing Valentino Rossi with his first competitive opportunity.

Sara Trentini is a highly accomplished Italian Women's International motorcycle trials rider. With an impressive track record, she has clinched the title of Italian Women's Trials Champion five times. Her victories include winning the National title consecutively in 2010, 2011, and 2012, as well as triumphing again in 2016 and 2017. Trentini's dedication, skill, and passion for the sport have solidified her reputation as a dominant force in the world of motorcycle trials, inspiring fans and fellow riders alike.

Loris Capirossi is an accomplished former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer from Italy. He has had a successful career spanning from 1990 to 2011, during which he won races in the Premier Class nine times. Capirossi holds the distinction of being the first rider to start over 300 Grand Prix races. He has won multiple World Championships, including the 125cc title in 1990 and 1991, and the 250cc title in 1998. Currently, he serves as the Safety Advisor to Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

Fausto Gresini had a remarkable professional career in motorcycle road racing. He was a talented racer who competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing from 1983 to 1994, achieving great success as a two-time 125cc world champion with the Garelli factory racing team. After retiring from racing, he transitioned into team management and founded the renowned Gresini Racing team. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, guiding the team to numerous victories and establishing a lasting legacy in the world of motorcycle racing.

Luca Cadalora is an accomplished Italian former professional motorcycle racer known for his impressive career in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. He achieved significant success throughout his career, winning the 125 cc World Championship in 1986 and the 250 cc World Championship in 1991 and 1992. Cadalora also secured victories in the Premier Class on eight occasions, showcasing his skill and talent on the track. He competed at a high level from 1984 to 2000, leaving a lasting impact on the sport with his remarkable achievements.

Dario Ambrosini was an Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer known for his time with the Benelli factory racing team. He achieved notable success in the FIM 250cc world championship, finishing as the runner-up in 1949 before claiming the championship title in 1950. Ambrosini's career was tragically cut short when he was killed during practice for the 1951 French Grand Prix at Albi. He is remembered for his skill on the track and his contributions to motorcycle racing history.

Alessandro Gramigni is an Italian former professional motorcycle racer known for his success in Grand Prix motorcycle racing and the Superbike World Championship. He competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing from 1990 to 1997 before transitioning to the Superbike World Championship from 1998 to 2003. Gramigni achieved a significant milestone in his career by winning the 1992 F.I.M. 125cc world championship. His dedication, skill, and achievements have solidified his legacy in the world of motorcycle racing.

Eugenio Lazzarini is an accomplished Italian former Grand Prix motorcycle road racing World Champion. He started his Grand Prix career in 1969, competing in the 250 class before securing his first Grand Prix victory in 1973 riding a Maico. Lazzarini went on to win the FIM 125cc world championship in 1978 on an MBA, followed by consecutive 50cc world championships in 1979 and 1980 with a Kreidler. His successful riding career spanned 15 seasons, showcasing his talent and skill on the racing circuit.

Lorenzo Dalla Porta is an accomplished Italian motorcycle racer known for his success in the Moto3 category. He has achieved notable victories, including winning the FIM CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship in 2016 and the CIV 125 GP championship in 2012. His crowning achievement came in 2019 when he secured the Moto3 World Championship title. Dalla Porta's dedication, skill, and consistency on the track have solidified his reputation as a talented and competitive racer in the world of motorcycle racing.

Marco Lucchinelli is an Italian retired professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who achieved great success during his career. In 1981, he clinched the FIM Road Racing World Championship title while riding for Suzuki, solidifying his place in the sport's history. Lucchinelli's remarkable skills and accomplishments on the track earned him the prestigious status of being named a MotoGP Legend. Throughout his professional life, he showcased exceptional talent and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the world of motorcycle racing.

Bruno Ruffo was an accomplished Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who secured three Grand Prix World Championships during his career. He began by winning the inaugural 250cc World Championship in 1949 with Moto Guzzi, followed by claiming the 125cc World Championship in the same year on a Mondial. Ruffo continued his success in 1950 by earning his third World Championship in the 250cc category. He retired in 1952 after an accident and later established a thriving vehicle hire business in Verona.

Matteo Ferrari is an accomplished Italian motorcycle racer known for his excellence in the FIM MotoE World Cup. He competes on a Ducati V21L and made history by becoming the first MotoE World Cup champion in 2019. With a remarkable track record and a strong presence in the racing world, Ferrari has demonstrated his skill and determination on the race track, earning admiration and respect from fans and competitors alike.

Carlo Ubbiali was a highly successful Italian motorcycle road racer, known for his dominance in the smaller classes of Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the 1950s. He secured a total of nine World Championships, with six titles in the 125cc category and three in the 250cc category. Ubbiali's outstanding achievements led to his induction into the MotoGP Hall of Fame by the F.I.M. in 2001, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport of motorcycle racing.

Enrico Lorenzetti was an Italian professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who made a significant impact in the 1940s and 1950s. He competed in the Moto Guzzi team during the 1949 season, finishing eighth overall with 7 points. His notable achievement came in 1952 when he clinched the 250 cc World Championship for Moto Guzzi. Lorenzetti's skills and dedication to motorcycle racing earned him recognition and respect within the racing community during his career.

Roberto Locatelli is a former Italian motorcycle rider known for his successful career in the world of motorbike racing. He achieved a significant milestone by winning the 125cc World Championship in 2000. Locatelli faced a challenging setback in 2007 when he sustained severe injuries during a practice session crash, including a broken leg and ankle, as well as a concussion. Despite this, he displayed resilience and determination by recovering in time to return to racing just two months later at Le Mans.

Franco Uncini is an Italian former professional Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who achieved great success in the sport. In 1982, he clinched the FIM Road Racing World Championship title with Suzuki, showcasing his exceptional racing skills and determination. His impressive performances led to his induction into the F.I.M. MotoGP Hall of Fame in 2016, solidifying his legacy in the world of motorcycle racing. Throughout his career, Uncini demonstrated a remarkable talent for racing and left a lasting impact on the sport.

Umberto Masetti was an accomplished Italian motorcycle road racer who made his mark in the Grand Prix motorcycle World Championship during the late 1940s and 1950s. Known for his success in various classes, Masetti secured two World Championship titles in 1950 and 1952 while riding for Gilera. He later competed for NSU and MV Agusta before retiring from motorcycle competition in 1958. Masetti's career was highlighted by notable victories in prestigious races like the Grands Prix of Belgium and the Netherlands.