Lario Circuit monument

Tribute to the Legend of the Italian Tourist Trophy

The landscape of Brianza holds one of the most evocative symbols of Italian motorcycling: the Monument of the Trophy of the Lario Circuit. Located in Lasnigo, Via Provinciale —precisely where the historic race’s finish line once stood— this monument is not merely a sculpture, but a tangible narrative in bronze and stone of a glorious era in motorcycle racing.

The Work and Its Symbolism

The statue depicts an athlete in a perfect discus-throwing pose who, instead of hurling a traditional disc, throws a piston wheel. This gesture, both classical and modern at the same time, symbolizes the fusion of ancient art with the technical innovations of motorcycles. In this context, the wheel becomes the emblem of passion and speed—elements that characterized the Lario Circuit and its reputation as the “Italian Tourist Trophy.”

The artwork was created by the Cuban sculptor Arlenys Castellanos Milan, while the concept and design are attributed to Gianmarco Maspes, also known as the author of “cuori a pistone.” His work captures the myriad stories —both big and small— of this historic event. The monument’s placement in Lasnigo thus stands as a tribute to the trophy once awarded by the CONI to the winners of the race.

A Brief History of the Lario Circuit

The Lario Circuit was born in 1921; its inaugural race took place on 14 July of that year, quickly becoming one of the most anticipated and challenging events in Italian motorcycling. In the 1920s and 1930s, the circuit —renowned for its demanding course winding through breathtaking landscapes— attracted the era’s top riders.

Legendary figures from the race still echo in the world of motorsport today. For instance, Amedeo Ruggeri won the very first edition riding a Harley Davidson 1000cc, while icons such as Tazio Nuvolari, Achille Varzi, Omobono Tenni, Nello Pagani, Dorino Serafini, Tonino Benelli, and Pietro Ghersi helped write unforgettable chapters in a history that served as a springboard for the evolution of motorcycling.

Also known as the Italian Tourist Trophy, the circuit held historic editions from 1922 to 1929, becoming synonymous with sporting excellence, technical innovation, and timeless elegance.

A Meeting of Past and Present

Inaugurated on 5 July 2014 with a gathering dedicated to Achille Varzi, the monument now serves as a landmark for riders, history enthusiasts, and motorcycle clubs from across Italy. Each year, during events like the Motoraduno del Motorasso, the site becomes a rendezvous point where the glorious past of the circuit blends with the vibrant spirit of the present.

The realization of the monument was made possible through the immediate support of the Moto Club Asso, the Lasnigo municipal administration, and a large group of volunteers who, with enthusiasm and passion, brought this symbol to life. In doing so, the monument not only celebrates sporting triumphs but also preserves the memory of an era that deeply influenced the identity of Italian motorcycling.