Interview with Nadia Padovani: the first woman in Italy to head up a MotoGP team
The Gresini Racing team was founded in 1997 by Fausto Gresini, twice world champion in the 125cc class. Having enjoyed a string of sporting achievements over the years, the Gresini Racing of today is proud to be a united, powerful team, with the legendary Marquez brothers riding in the premier class.
Nadia Padovani, widow of the late Fausto who sadly passed away around three years ago, is now at the helm of the Gresini team. After the death of her husband, Nadia made one of the hardest decisions of her life: to continue the legacy to which Fausto had dedicated his entire existence, becoming the first woman in Italy to head up a MotoGP team.
Three years ago, you took over the reins of the Gresini Team. Can you summarise this adventure for us in a few words?
Although hard work, it’s an adventure that’s proving to be hugely rewarding. It’s not always easy, physically or psychologically, but we know where we want to go. Together, we’re always achieving new milestones: for example, we don’t just have Alex Marquez on our team now, but Marc too.
What would you say was your most emotional moment and also the biggest decision you had to make this year?
The most significant moment of the past few years was definitely Enea Bastianini’s victory in the 2022 Qatar Grand Prix: an unforgettable day full of emotions. The most difficult, bravest decision I had to make was to stay in the MotoGP after my husband Fausto passed away.
The Ducati – Marquez duo seemed unthinkable, but you’ve made it a reality. Is that something you would ever have imagined three years ago?
Three years ago, having Marc Marquez, eight-time world champion, on our team seemed like a distant dream. Today, it’s an honour to have him and makes us truly proud of the professional journey we’re on.
What kind of relationship do you establish with an eight-time World Champion?
My relationship with Marc Marquez, like with all our riders, is based on a set of unwavering principles. In our big racing family, our focus is on building connections founded on trust and sincerity.
When we’re not working, we always joking and laughing together: we want it to be an environment we feel happy in, even in the toughest moments. Like any true team, we celebrate our victories together and we comfort each other when we’re defeated. I always try to make sure they can feel my presence, and with a simple hug I want them to know they can always count on me, during the good times, but also, and above all, when things get difficult.
Over the last few years, how has your relationship with the world of racing changed?
I’ve gone from fan and spectator to protagonist, physically taking to the stage.
My relationship with racing has changed radically. It’s not always easy, but I can say I’m proud of what I’m doing, and for now I’m doing just fine.
What fundamental values do you consider key to success in the racing world?
Staying true to yourself I think is crucial, along with humility, reminding ourselves that we should never stop learning or improving. And I think in this world, to be successful, you have to be fiercely passionate, motivated, give it your all, and often make sacrifices. You’re often forced to make big decisions, and in those moments, determination is essential.
Aside from our own personal values, those are the ones that apply to the team as a whole. It’s really important to motivate every single team member, making them feel valued, respecting them, and encouraging them to always do their best, even under pressure. Finally, one other thing that’s crucial for success is having really clearly defined shared goals, so that we can achieve them together as a team.
What does it mean to you to be the first woman to ever head up a MotoGP team?
It’s not easy being a woman in a predominantly male world. It’s very important to be credible in the eyes of others, and that’s what makes being the first woman to lead a MotoGP team a daily challenge.
Over the last three years, I think I’ve proved a lot with my team. Together, we’ve achieved massive results, thanks to our professionalism. This has certainly had a part to play in an eight-time world champion now being part of our team.
Who is Nadia Padovani outside of MotoGP?
I’m a woman, a mother and a worker. I do what lots of others do: I cook, I do the shopping and I spend time with my four sons, ideally with a cheery smile.
In short, I try to always be myself, without distinguishing between the everyday Nadia Padovani and the MotoGP Nadia Padovani.
If you think of the Motor Valley, what’s the first thing that springs to mind?
When I think of the Motor Valley, the first thing that comes to mind is Made in Italy: cars, motorbikes and all the industries that represent the land of engines in Italy and across the world. I also think of the art, museums and food and wine that define us.
The Emiliani and Romagnoli are simple, happy, determined people who can take on any situation with a smile. I think back to the floods that devastated our region last year: we rolled up our sleeves, cleared away the mud and got back on our feet, with ‘Romagna Mia’ playing in the background.
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