John Elkann, CEO of Exor, has outlined a clear vision for Juventus as the club prepares for the new season. Speaking from Paris, where he has been attending various Olympic events, Elkann emphasized the importance of a fresh start for the team and the need to eliminate any excuses.
Olympic Inspiration and Juventus’ Future
Elkann began by highlighting the strong connection between sports and education, a principle deeply embedded in the Agnelli Foundation’s initiatives. “We want to convey the message that sports and education can go hand in hand, supporting each other. Giving up on sports doesn’t make you better at school and vice versa,” he said. He also praised the long-standing relationship between the Agnelli family and Juventus, calling it “the longest relationship with sports in the world.”
A New Era with Thiago Motta
Elkann expressed confidence in new manager Thiago Motta, who will lead Juventus into the upcoming season. “With Thiago, we are approaching a new generation. Our team is very young, and he has the experience needed to work with our group. He is the person we need,” Elkann stated. He stressed the importance of creating a positive atmosphere and engaging with fans, both in person and through social media.
The Concept of ‘Year Zero’
When asked if Juventus is entering a ‘year zero,’ Elkann responded, “It depends on what you mean. I start from a phrase I read recently at Roland Garros: ‘Victory belongs to those who have tenacity.'” He elaborated on the idea of tenacity, saying, “It’s the desire to get back in the game after moments of adversity. Year zero means leaving behind what has happened, pressing the ‘reset’ button, and looking forward. Strong athletes and teams have this ability, without falling into situations of making excuses.”
Facing Reality in Italian Football
Elkann also addressed the current state of Italian football, noting that it is no longer the ultimate destination for top players but rather a stepping stone to the Premier League. “It’s a pity not to face reality. This is the situation we are living in, and the mistake would be to deny this evidence,” he remarked.
Hamilton and Ferrari
Switching gears to Formula 1, Elkann discussed the signing of Lewis Hamilton by Ferrari. “Certain things happen very quickly. This was the moment when he and Ferrari found each other. He wants to win his eighth title, and Ferrari wants to win. With Lewis, we are stronger. He is not coming to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement; it’s important to have motivated people around who want to win,” he said.
The Importance of Experience
Elkann highlighted the value of experience in the current competitive landscape of Formula 1. “There is true competition now with four teams very close: Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes. It’s important to always perform at your maximum potential. Those with more experience have more consistency, as shown by Hamilton and Alonso. And consistency matters,” he explained.
The Essence of Sport
Reflecting on the broader significance of sports, Elkann said, “Sport is the emotion you experience with the people close to you. The sense of tomorrow’s match (today) is also this.” He noted that young athletes today are focusing more on the joy of winning rather than the disappointment of losing, which he sees as a healthier approach.
Personal Engagement in Sports
Elkann shared his personal involvement in sports, particularly those he can enjoy with his children, such as football and tennis. He also mentioned his serious engagement with sailing, having spent over a decade competing with Giovanni Soldini on Maserati 1 and Maserati 2. “Sailing is a great school of life: you depend on external elements, and in certain situations, you can only wait. Here too, I have tried to involve the kids, who actually prefer smaller boats where there is greater participation and control,” he concluded.
