Few roles in motorsport demand the adaptability and precision of the role Camilla Canclini possesses, as team coordinator of Bonovo Action BMW. Her responsibilities include handling team logistics, scheduling, managing guests, supporting media commitments, and assisting riders throughout race weekends. “You need to be sure everything is organised properly, follow a schedule, and make sure to don’t forget anything before arriving at the track.”
Growing up in the serene mountains of northern Italy, motorsport wasn’t always part of Camilla’s life. It wasn’t until later that she discovered her passion for racing, but her goals quickly became clear; “I immediately realised that I wanted to turn this new passion into a job.” And so, after graduating in Linguistic and Intercultural Communication at the University of Padua, she took her first steps into the motorsport world, working in hospitality at SBK and MotoGP events.
Camilla faced setbacks along the way, as the motorsports world came to a 2-year halt as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions, she was unable to work in this dynamic industry. Despite this, her goals and determination never wavered, in 2022, she joined an Italian WorldSSP team and, by the following year, achieved her dream of becoming Team Coordinator for a factory team in the WorldSBK category, the HRC Team and now with Bonovo Action BMW. For the 2024 season they ran 2 BMWs with esteemed riders, Garrett Gerloff and Scott Redding. However, from the 2025 season, the team will rebrand to MGM Bonovo Racing, continuing with Scott Redding but making the switch from BMW to Ducati, a welcome challenge for Camilla, “A new adventure begins for us!”.
Entering the motorsport industry as a woman came with significant challenges. Camilla initially struggled to gain the respect she deserved, encountering both overpowering behaviour and unprofessional conduct. Despite these obstacles, she has seen encouraging progress over the years and remains optimistic about the future. “Luckily, things are changing, and women are becoming a strong part of the motorsport world.”
High-pressure environments are the name of the game in the motorsports industry, but Camilla doesn’t shy away from the challenge, “working under high pressure helps me to perform better. I like the adrenaline and I like to think fast”. Undoubtedly, it’s this impressive and tenacious attitude that assists in pushing the Bonovo team to new hights in the competitive arena of WorldSBK.
Her role as Team Coordinator demands adaptability and quick thinking, yet it also brings moments of immense pride and fulfilment. For her, the true reward lies in the sense of unity that comes with being part of a team, whether celebrating victories or navigating challenges, “It’s a very stressing role but it gives you a lot of satisfaction. Being part of a team is always rewarding, in good times and especially during hard times.”
Camilla believes that success in motorsports, particularly in roles like hers, relies on mastering certain key skills and traits. Fluency in multiple languages, an open mind, and readiness for the unexpected are essential. She highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, likening her role to being “like a student 24/7,” where no two days are ever the same.
For women aspiring to join motorsport, her advice is both practical and empowering: persistence and self-respect are non-negotiable. “Don’t give up, be stubborn and smart. Work hard, fight for your dreams and set goals. It’s important to be respected, as women and persons, in order to create a healthy work environment.”
From her beginnings in hospitality to coordinating factory teams at the pinnacle of the WorldSBK Championship, Camilla’s journey showcases the power of hard work, resilience, and a passion for the sport. Her story is an inspiring reminder of the possibilities available to women in motorsport, both on and off the track.
All of these pictures were sourced from Camilla herself!
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