A partnership between RCS Sports & Events, Roma Capitale, and ACLI is donating 35 bicycles and safety helmets to children, families, and others in vulnerable situations across Rome, shifting the Giro d’Italia’s legacy from urban murals to direct social support.
Impact of Bicycle Donations in Rome
The first 11 bicycles were handed over at the San Giuseppe Protection Centre, which is affiliated with ACLI Roma. In attendance were Alessandro Onorato, the Roma Capitale councillor responsible for major events, sport, tourism, and fashion; Roberto Salamini, who oversees marketing and communication at RCS Sports & Events; and Lidia Borzì, vice president of ACLI Roma.
Bicycles from this first delivery are earmarked for Casa Pollicino, which cares for children awaiting foster care or adoption, and Giardino di Pace, a facility that supports mothers and their children. Further donations are being distributed through organisations that work daily with people in need, including:
- Three bicycles for Casa Rifugio Agar, a shelter for refugee women and survivors of violence and their children.
- Four bicycles for Casa Accoglienza Riparte within the Sette Soli Per network, to help young people leaving residential care commute to work.
- Seven bicycles for the Basilica of Saint Sophia, for Ukrainian children living in Italy and for children still in Ukraine.
The bicycles were purchased from Rossignoli, a long-standing specialist retailer in Milan, while Decathlon provided protective helmets. This initiative underscores cooperation between public institutions, private companies, and third-sector organisations to strengthen local support networks.
City officials described major events as bringing lasting benefits beyond their economic impact, and they stated that bicycle deliveries will continue to additional family homes in Rome. RCS Sports & Events framed the effort as part of the Giro d’Italia’s commitment to leaving tangible value in host communities, following earlier projects focused on mural art. Decathlon highlighted its goal of removing barriers to active living through accessible products and partnerships. ACLI Roma emphasised that directing the donations through its network helps reach the households and facilities where the bicycles can have the greatest effect, promoting independence, well-being, and inclusion.
This initiative not only provides necessary resources but also fosters community engagement and support, showcasing how sports events can contribute positively to society.