The appointment marks another significant step in the development of Gucci Racing, the brand’s strategic platform designed to expand Gucci’s presence across global sports while creating new opportunities for innovation, client engagement and business growth.
Vitale brings decades of international leadership experience from some of the world’s most recognised sports organisations and brands, positioning him to help shape the next chapter of Gucci’s ambitions in the sporting world.
A sports industry leader joins Gucci
Before joining Gucci, Vitale served as Managing Director of Venezia Football Club, where he helped lead the Italian football club’s operations.
His career also includes senior global leadership positions at internationally recognised sports brands including Kappa, Adidas Y-3 with Yohji Yamamoto, Nike, and Jordan. During more than 13 years at Nike’s headquarters in Portland, he progressed through a series of increasingly senior leadership roles across the organisation, building extensive expertise in the global sports industry.
His experience across performance, brand strategy and international markets is expected to play an important role in Gucci Racing’s future growth.
Building the future of Gucci Racing
In his new role, Vitale will work closely with Giovanni Perosino, who will continue leading the initiative as Senior Vice President of Gucci Racing, while also maintaining his responsibilities as Senior Vice President of Marketing.
Gucci Racing represents one of the luxury brand’s newest strategic growth platforms, combining luxury craftsmanship with the worlds of elite sport and contemporary culture.
The initiative’s first major expression came in May 2026, when Gucci announced its partnership with the Alpine Formula One Team, introducing the brand into one of the world’s fastest-growing global sports.
Built around the values of performance, precision, discipline and excellence, Gucci Racing reflects the House’s ambition to engage new audiences while strengthening its global cultural relevance.
Beyond Formula 1
While Formula 1 serves as the starting point for Gucci Racing, the company has outlined a much broader vision for the platform.
According to Gucci, the initiative is intended to expand across multiple sporting disciplines, including:
- Formula 1
- Tennis
- Winter sports
- Equestrianism
- Additional sports categories in the future
The broader strategy aims to create new opportunities for deeper client engagement, premium brand experiences and long-term business growth across global markets.
Gucci believes Vitale’s strategic vision, international experience and deep understanding of the sports industry will be instrumental in unlocking the full potential of Gucci Racing as it continues to evolve.
Continuing Gucci’s evolution
Founded in Florence, Italy, in 1921, Gucci remains one of the world’s leading luxury fashion houses.
Today, under the leadership of President and CEO Francesca Bellettini and the artistic direction of Demna, the House continues to focus on creativity, Italian craftsmanship and innovation while redefining modern luxury.
As part of the global luxury group Kering, Gucci joins a portfolio of renowned fashion, jewellery, beauty and lifestyle brands that continue shaping the future of luxury worldwide.
With the appointment of Tancredi Vitale, Gucci signals that Gucci Racing is more than a Formula 1 partnership—it is the foundation of a long-term vision where luxury, performance and sport intersect on a global stage.
