Born in Florence in 1971, Luca is the project leader of the IBSA Class40. He’s graduated in Engineering at the Milan Polytechnic and holds an Executive Master in Corporate Finance at the Bocconi University.
He made a career in industry, finance and the insurance sector, holding several managerial roles in Italy and abroad. Now he lives in Zurich, where he deals with Strategic Consulting, mainly in the financial and insurance sector.
“Sailing is more than a passion for me; I remember my first trip to Sardinia in the early ’70s and the chance to sail aboard Corsaro II, the historic ketch of the Italian Navy… since then I have never gotten off the boat”.
Sardinia became his home at the age of 10, when his father became Secretary General of the Costa Smeralda Yacht Club, getting involved in historical challenges such as that of Azzurra.
While studying, he managed to work and have fun as a sailor and racer, growing up with the best Italian sailors.
In recent years, he shared his managerial experience to support the development of the sport of sailing.
His commitment continues as Sports Director of the Circolo Vela Bellano. Together with a team of coaches and professionals – and with the support of the Italian Sailing Federation – they are investing in the concept of “Virtuous Circle” of competitive sailing, developing a nursery of young athletes, but also supporting sustainable sailing and environmental protection initiatives.
In 2021 he met Alberto Bona, whom he hired as navigator for the Rolex Giraglia regatta aboard BertaX, a 50-foot X-Yacht.
Together they optimised the boat and made a successful race, marking the beginning of a strong sharing of values and the conviction of being able to do something unique together.
“Working with Alberto was one of the funniest and most engaging experiences of my life. Alberto is not only a talent of offshore sailing, but also an old-fashioned sailor, with profound and sincere values. He combines meticulous preparation with a sensitivity that I have rarely encountered”.
Together, they are planning the three-year campaign on the Class 40, supported by the IBSA Group, which gives life to this wonderful challenge.