The maxi helmet dedicated to Valentino Rossi for which Ricci is under investigation

Measuring 6 meters tall, 4 meters wide, and weighing 400 kg, the oversized helmet pays homage to Valentino Rossi 's career, "a record-breaking work also designed to strengthen the pilgrimage of his fans between Pesaro and Tavullia." This is how the then-mayor of Pesaro, Matteo Ricci, described the work in July 2022 , unveiled in front of hundreds of fans. Its commissioning led exactly three years later to the notice of investigation received by the MEP and center-left candidate in the upcoming regional elections.

"A Legendary Helmet" was needed to pay fitting tribute to Valentino Rossi, as the city's website stated. "But in Pesaro," Mayor Matteo Ricci commented, "the fans' hearts beat faster than anyone else's. We've always believed in him and his immense talent."

The artifact was made by Richard Sivelli by EXTRALAB, a 56-year-old originally from Bologna but a Rimini resident for 20 years. The creator and coordinator of the "A Legendary Helmet" project, Massimiliano Santini, explained: "We're talking about a helmet of unprecedented dimensions, the largest in the world. A one-of-a-kind artistic event, which, in addition to being a tribute to Valentino Rossi's career, can certainly become a symbol of attraction for the city of Pesaro in terms of sports tourism related to the Valentino phenomenon, but also to welcome many curious onlookers and enthusiasts."

The nine-time world champion was also excited: "It's fantastic," said Valentino Rossi. "I loved the idea from the start because I've always been a huge helmet fan. We worked hard on it, and the result represents me."