Dario Marchetti, rider and standard bearer of Ducati: “ Rocco Siffredi and I have a lot in common: We do work we love and we have fun. »
De Marianna Giannoni / Corsedimoto.com
The heart against reason, the eternal challenge. In the field of motorcycling, an almost mystical and irrational passion often prevails, but there are those who let themselves be guided by their brain. Dario Marchetti, 62, was born and raised in Castel San Pietro Terme, in the province of Bologna. For years he has been the technical director of the Ducati Riding Experience and the ambassador of the manufacturer from Borgo Panigale. He speaks five languages perfectly and occasionally acts as a commentator for Eurosport France.
« I have always been passionate about engines ", tell Dario Marchetti in Corsedimoto. “ At first I wanted to race by car, but I decided to go it alone, so motorcycles were more accessible in terms of cost. I then managed to turn my passion into my profession, a bit like my friend Rocco Siffredi did. It seems like a joke but we both do what we love so it doesn't weigh us down to work, on the contrary. »
How did you get started?
« I quickly became a professional runner. I have run everywhere, all over the world, in America but also in remote places in Asia and Eastern Europe. I ran where I got paid. Of course, we all love racing in the World Championship and, moreover, the last Ducati podiums in the World Endurance Championship also bear my signature, but the desire to race in the big championships and the passion can play against you towers. »
Have you always followed rationality?
“In my opinion, the brain must control the heart, enthusiasm must never take over rationality. Maybe it's because I've always had to earn a living and in the beginning I was really strapped for money, but I've always looked at it that way. During my career, I preferred to play in championships that were less prestigious than others, but which could guarantee me a financial return. I am happy with my choice, I have no regrets, on the contrary. The years go by but I have the same passion as when I was a child. »
Throughout your life, you have traveled a lot…
« And I continue to do it, I'm still on the road and I feel great satisfaction. When an amateur driver, thanks to my advice, lowers his time at Mugello by a few seconds or touches his knee, well, for me it's magnificent. I will always be grateful to Ducati for giving me the chance to become part of their family, taking care of all customer initiatives. I go everywhere, it's almost like a world championship. We do presentations, classes and track days on every continent. »
When did you leave competition?
« I haven't raced in two years but I've never done the farewell race. I don't feel like a former runner yet and if I had the opportunity to run, under certain conditions, I would do it again. A few years ago I had a very serious accident in Rijeka and the doctors told me that if I got back on the motorbike I might die. I told them that without a motorbike I was dead anyway, even if I was breathing. A few months later, I took part in the Mugello race and won the endurance race. It's one of my best memories of winning at Daytona. »
Read the original article on Corsedimoto.com
Marianna Giannoni
