This week`s issue features a captivating journey into the temple of speed, alongside comprehensive coverage of the Men`s Volleyball World Championship and updates on Gattuso`s National Team.
F1: The Temple of Speed – Monza
The legendary Monza circuit, a true `Temple of Speed,` graces the cover of this week`s Sportweek, accompanying the Gazzetta dello Sport. Its iconic corners—Biassono, Roggia, Lesmo 1, Lesmo 2, Serraglio, Ascari, and Parabolica—have witnessed the birth of racing legends and the making of history, leading to the thrilling finish line. Monza is more than just a track; it`s where legends are forged and history is etched into the asphalt.
Arianna Ravelli eloquently describes Monza not merely as a circuit, but as a “pagan pilgrimage” with revered “stations” like the Parabolica and Lesmo curves. It`s a secular ritual steeped in profound emotion, where fans have experienced both immense joy and sorrow, some even cutting fences to sneak in and be part of its magic. Monza is synonymous with Italian passion, particularly Ferrari red, standing apart from other circuits that join the calendar for commercial or political reasons alone. Sportweek delves into this “Temple of Speed” with a special feature, exploring its rich history, iconic moments, and intriguing facts.
This edition also includes an exclusive interview with four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who expresses his deep fondness for Italy, its cuisine, and Sardinia. He recalls the unique experience of fans cheering his name at Imola despite not racing for Ferrari. The F1 coverage continues with a heartfelt tribute to Niki Lauda, commemorating 50 years since his first World Championship victory at the 1975 Monza GP. Luca Delli Carri recounts the Austrian`s initial triumph, which he would repeat two years later, still with Ferrari, and again in 1984 with McLaren.
Football: In-depth Interviews and National Team Trends
This issue features an in-depth interview with Federico Bonazzoli, affectionately known as the “king of bicycle kicks” for his two memorable goals against AC Milan while playing for Salernitana and Cremonese. The former Inter talent reveals a surprisingly grounded perspective, stating, “I don`t fully feel part of this world,” and expressing disinterest in common footballer luxuries like cars and watches.
The article also highlights the growing trend of Italian national team players, or “exported Italians,” who ply their trade abroad. With 11 such players currently in the Azzurri squad – a historic high, compared to zero at the 2006 World Cup in Germany – Sportweek offers a comprehensive analysis of this phenomenon. Additionally, Andrea Cossu, a Cagliari icon, shares his “Top11,” predictably composed entirely of players wearing the club`s distinctive red and blue colors.
Volleyball, Style, and Tributes
The Men`s Volleyball World Championship kicks off on September 12th, with defending champions Italy, under coach De Giorgi, pinning their hopes on stars Alessandro Michieletto and Simone Giannelli. The article outlines the five key challenges these exceptional athletes must overcome to reclaim their world title.
The style section pays a special tribute to tennis icon Althea Gibson, the dedicatee of this year`s US Open, celebrating her profound impact on the sport. Further features include a captivating fashion spread, exclusive off-paper content, editorial recommendations, and an “Icon” segment honoring the legendary Franz Beckenbauer, who would have celebrated his eightieth birthday on September 11th.
