Have you heard the rumour? Benelli is staging a comeback in MotoGP! This is a dream come true for many Italians, including myself. Designer Francesco Gnoli from Rimini is confident it’s a possibility. The future is looking bright for Benelli in the world of MotoGP.
It’s fascinating to note Benelli Q.J. is an Italian manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters. The company is headquartered in the Marche region of Pesaro and is the second oldest Italian motorcycle company still operating today.
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Despite being founded in Pesaro in 1911, it has been owned by Qianjiang Motorcycle since 2005, which is a Chinese company under the Geely Holding Group’s ownership.
1950 Dario Ambrosini
In 1950 and 1969, Benelli was part of MotoGP.In 1950 Dario Ambrosini was the talented Italian Grand Prix motorcycle road racer who competed for the Benelli factory racing team.
He had a successful racing career, finishing second to Bruno Ruffo in the inaugural FIM 250cc world championship in 1949. Ambrosini returned in 1950 and claimed the 250cc world championship with three victories, including a notable win at the 1950 Isle of Man TT.
However, tragedy struck during official practice for the 1951 French Grand Prix at Albi when Ambrosini was killed. He will always be remembered for his skill and passion for motorcycle racing.
1960 Kel Carruthers
Thanks to his father’s business, Carruthers had an early start in motorcycles. He learned the ins and outs of bike mechanics from a young age and even started riding at 10.
At the tender age of 12, he participated in his first race and from there, his passion for motorcycles only grew stronger. By the early 1960s, Carruthers had made a name for himself in the racing world, having won the Australian 125 cc, 250 cc, 350 cc and 500 cc National Championships.
While in 1969, it was Kel Carruthers who was riding for the Benelli factory racing team. It’s genuinely remarkable he secured a ride with the Benelli factory halfway through the 1969 season and ultimately won the Isle of Man 250 cc TT race.
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Being selected by a respected team and competing at such a high level is a great honour only the best riders can achieve. It is worth noting Benelli had emerged victorious in the MotoGP World Constructors championship on two occasions – in 1950 and 1969. This is an impressive feat cannot be overlooked.
Italian designer
However, Italian designer Francesco Gnoli made sure the thread doesnt die. Crafted passionately, Gnoli made an impressive rendering of the Benelli MotoGP motorcycle. The meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the bike is truly remarkable, demonstrating Gnoli’s skill.
Will history repeat itself, and will Benelli be part of MotoGP? Is a question remains answered?