Top Athletes, Riccardo Ponzio: driving a Formula 1 Jaguar with a Coni medal around his neck

When a passion is engraved in the heart, no obstacle is too great to carry it out. This is demonstrated by Riccardo Ponzio, Top Athlete and pilot, about to graduate in Economics and Business. His talent has not gone unnoticed by Coni, which awarded him the bronze medal for athletic value.

Riccardo, at what age did you start racing? How did you approach motor racing?

I started racing now more than six years ago, I approached racing for my personal passion. No one in my family had any interest in motor racing, but I knew from a young age that there was only one thing I liked: cars. Then, thanks to the first races I did when I was sixteen and went quite well, my journey began.

A professional sportsman and a student away from home: how did you manage to carry on both careers?

Luiss certainly helped me to organize my studies, both in terms of time and quality. Being a professional sportsman at this age is not easy, because you have very little time available. Following a high-profile academic path requires further organization. Fortunately, from this point of view, Luiss is able to help its athletes a lot.

Have you ever thought that the competitive activity could preclude you from other experiences? Have you had second thoughts?

The sports career precludes various aspects of the private life of each athlete. Anyone who does this kind of activity knows this, but I don’t think any of us have ever had second thoughts. If you do what you love, you can hardly be unhappy about sacrificing yourself to achieve important results.

Now both paths have reached their peak: what emotions do you feel about them?

I’m certainly very happy to be where I am: I got the contract to drive the Formula 1 Jaguar and I reached my academic goal with the degree. The acknowledgment from Coni is the icing on the cake.

What is your next goal?

I want to continue to play sports at the highest level and pursue Dual Career with the same results.

We thank Riccardo Ponzio and wish him the best of luck in his two careers.