In the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsport, Italian racer Roberta Ponziani is making her mark as a fierce competitor in the first-ever WorldWCR Championship. With a 5th-place finish in this ground-breaking series, Ponziani has quickly become a symbol of determination, grit, and resilience, blazing a trail for other women who aspire to race professionally. Her journey, while marked by challenges, is also a story of relentless ambition and passion, with Ponziani's drive pushing her beyond the limits of what many would consider possible.
Source: World Superbike Website
Roberta’s path to the WorldWCR was anything but easy. Coming off a victory in the Italian championship last year, she was determined to take her talent to the world stage. "I knew that if there would be an Italian girl in the world championship, I had to be that girl!" she shared, recalling the determination that drove her. Knowing that the opportunity wouldn’t come without sacrifice, Ponziani set out to find the necessary sponsorships and support, navigating the financial challenges that often stand in the way of athlete in motorsport. Her efforts paid off, and she secured her place as Italy's representative in the global competition.
Her love for racing runs deep, and from a young age, she looked up to icons like Valentino Rossi, who inspired her not only to race but to strive for excellence in everything she does. With Rossi as her role model, Ponziani adopted his work ethic, his fearlessness on the track, and his unwavering belief that anything is possible with enough dedication.
Among the memorable moments of her career, Ponziani notes that this year's race in Cremona stands out as one of her most unforgettable experiences. Competing against some of the best riders in the world, she pushed herself to new limits, showing that her place in the championship is well-earned. Each race is a learning experience, she says, but also a chance to demonstrate that she belongs among the elite.
Taking part in the WorldWCR carries a particular significance for Ponziani, as she sees herself as a role model for young girls who dream of a life in racing. "It’s great to be an example for other girls" she remarks with pride. Ponziani knows the importance of visibility in a sport where female competitors are still in the minority, and she hopes that her achievements will inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
This season, Ponziani set her sights on staying competitive in every race, aiming for the podium and, when possible, for victory itself. She reflects on her performance with pride, recognizing how close she came to achieving her dream. Her strong showing this year underscores her skill and commitment, creating a promising foundation for the future. With more experience and dedicated training, she’s confident that she’ll return to the WCR even stronger, with a mindset to improve “everyday better than yesterday” as she sharpens her craft.
Looking to the future, Roberta remains ambitious yet grounded. While she’s had the opportunity to race on some of her dream tracks, she knows there is always room to learn and improve. Her ultimate goal is to continue racing in the WCR, but with each passing season, she aims to bring more experience, skill, and confidence to her races.
When asked what advice she would give to young girls aspiring to race, Ponziani’s message is simple but powerful: "Never give up; we are strong and we can reach everything." This statement, which reflects her own journey and resilience, encapsulates the strength and resolve she believes every woman can tap into. Ponziani’s career is proof that perseverance and courage can pave the way in even the most competitive arenas, and she hopes her story will inspire the next generation to challenge limits and chase their dreams.
Roberta Ponziani’s journey is far from over, and with each race, she continues to push boundaries, both her own and those of the sport she loves. Her presence in the WorldWCR is not just a personal achievement but a step forward for women in motorsport, illustrating the powerful impact of representation and the heights that can be reached with unwavering dedication. As she looks toward the future, Ponziani is set to continue inspiring, racing, and proving that the track has room for everyone with the heart and passion to drive it forward.
All photos without credit are courtesy of Roberta herself. Make sure to follow her journey on Instagram: @roby4896
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