Silvia Rizzo at EICMA 2026: The Meetings, the Opportunities and What Comes Next

After gaining attention for her Ducati connection, Silvia Rizzo attended EICMA 2026, where unexpected meetings opened new possibilities.

What does an international Grand Prix dressage rider have to do with the future of motorcycling?

In Silvia Rizzo’s case, considerably more than one might expect.

Over the past year, Rizzo has attracted attention for her unconventional projects connecting elite sport, performance, Italian design and Ducati motorcycles. Her personal tribute to Ducati’s 100th anniversary, inspired in part by her Grand Prix horse who shares the legendary Italian name, has already been featured in international media.

But what initially captured attention as an unusual story has continued to develop.

And her recent appearance at EICMA 2026 in Milan suggests that there may be considerably more ahead.

EICMA is one of the world’s leading international motorcycle exhibitions, where manufacturers unveil new models, industry leaders meet and innovations that will influence the coming years take centre stage.

Rizzo attended during the industry and press days, with several professional meetings arranged.

Interestingly, the visit itself hadn’t originally been part of her plans.

So what happened in Milan?

“I arrived with some meetings arranged, but I certainly didn’t expect the experience to become so important. I had the opportunity to meet people with extraordinary knowledge and experience, and some of our conversations opened possibilities I hadn’t anticipated. I came away with much more than I went there for.”

Ducati: A Remarkable Century, and the People Shaping Its Future

Silvia Rizzo in conversation with Vito Paciolla of Moto Trainer at EICMA 2026.

With Ducati celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, the manufacturer’s presence at EICMA carried particular significance.

The latest developments across the Panigale, Monster and Diavel families offered a look at how the Italian brand continues to evolve while preserving its unmistakable identity.

For Rizzo, one encounter stood out.

She met Andrea Ferraresi, Ducati’s Director of Strategy & Centro Stile, a leading figure behind the manufacturer’s design identity and product strategy.

Ferraresi personally introduced her to Ducati’s latest motorcycles.

“Having Andrea show me the new Ducati models was a truly special experience. When you have the opportunity to speak directly with someone who has played such an important role in shaping a brand like Ducati, you gain a completely different perspective. I appreciated it enormously. It was one of those encounters that makes an experience genuinely memorable.”

There is more to that meeting than Rizzo is ready to share for now.

Another Meeting. Another Opportunity.

EICMA also brought Rizzo together with Vito Paciolla of Moto Trainer, the Italian company developing motorcycle simulation and training technology.

What began as a professional meeting soon developed into a discussion about business strategy, new ideas and potential projects.

“We had a very interesting exchange. Vito explained the company’s direction, and we started brainstorming about what we could develop together. I found the possibilities extremely interesting, particularly considering my background in high-performance sport. We are looking forward to working together, and there will be much more to say about this.”

For now, Rizzo prefers to keep the details of the collaboration for a separate announcement.

Why This Visit Matters

Rizzo has never limited her professional interests to a single discipline.

Her international dressage career has been accompanied by work in coaching, performance and creative projects, often bringing her into contact with people and industries far removed from the equestrian arena.

That ability to move between different environments has become one of the most distinctive aspects of her story.

And EICMA appears to have opened another set of possibilities.

Did you expect these meetings to have such an impact on your future plans?

“No, not to this extent. Of course, I knew I was going to meet interesting people. But there’s a big difference between having a meeting and coming away with ideas that you genuinely want to develop. I learned a great deal, and I was particularly impressed by the openness and enthusiasm of the people I met. What matters to me is that these conversations didn’t end when I left Milan. Some of them are already becoming part of what I’m planning for 2027.”

The Story Is Only Beginning

Silvia Rizzo riding a Ducati Panigale on the Moto Trainer simulator at EICMA 2026.

For Rizzo, the most valuable part of EICMA wasn’t something displayed on a stand.

It was the opportunity to sit down with people whose expertise, vision and willingness to explore new ideas could have a lasting influence on her future projects.

So, what exactly can we expect next?

“I could tell you a few things already, but I’d rather wait until I can share the complete stories. What I can say is that I’m extremely happy about what came out of EICMA. I met remarkable people, discovered new possibilities and came home with some very exciting plans. And I think 2027 is going to be particularly interesting.”

An unexpected trip to EICMA has become something far more significant for Silvia Rizzo.

The motorcycles were impressive. The encounters were exceptional.

But perhaps the most interesting part of her experience is what has yet to be revealed.

Because the real story may not be what happened at EICMA — but what happens because of it.

Explore More About Silvia Rizzo

From international dressage and creative collaborations to leadership and performance, Silvia Rizzo continues to explore opportunities that connect different disciplines and perspectives. To discover more about her journey, projects, and latest updates, visit Hof Marabunta website, follow her on Instagram, or connect with her on LinkedIn.