In this special episode of "Inside the Helmet," Riccardo Ianniello addresses a topic of great social importance: road safety. Riccardo, who knows speed in controlled and safe conditions, shares his reflections on a subject that closely affects all young people his age. An important message from someone who lives his passion for motors responsibly.

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Riccardo, let's talk about road safety, a very important topic. What do you think when you hear statistics about road accidents in Italy?

It's always very sad to hear about road accidents, especially when they involve young people. As a driver, I've learned how fundamental safety is and how quickly situations can change. My message is clear: if you love speed, the circuit is the right place to express it. On the road, caution must always be the priority. It's not about limiting fun, but about respecting yourself and other road users.

You've passed the theoretical exam and are about to take the practical one, but you're also a federal driving instructor for the speed sector. Is it strange to study the highway code when you already teach driving and race professionally?

It's not strange at all, in fact it's very educational. It's helping me understand how different these two realities are. On track, everything is controlled: I know the car perfectly, the circuit, the race conditions. On the road, variables are infinite and unpredictable. Studying the highway code has made me reflect on the importance of always being prepared for the unexpected and maintaining a cautious and responsible approach.

As a passenger, what's the most dangerous behavior you often see on the roads?

The behaviors I notice most frequently are speeding and using the phone while driving. As a passenger, these situations worry me a lot. I understand that sometimes you might be in a hurry or receive important calls, but it's essential to remember that just a few seconds of distraction can lead to dangerous situations. Concentration while driving must always be maximum.

Your peers often associate speed with fun. How would you convince them that you can have fun safely?

Certainly if you want to have fun racing, you can go to the track. There you have qualified instructors, adequate safety systems and you'll be safe. Many circuits offer track days or sports driving courses where you can unleash your passion for speed without putting yourself or others at risk. The road is not the right place to show how fast you are.

When you get your license, how do you think your approach to road driving will change?

I know very well that on the road you have to pay close attention to dangers and pedestrians when driving, because we can never predict a danger. My track experience has taught me the importance of concentration and reading situations, but on the road I have to apply these principles in a completely different way. I'll have to be even more careful and cautious, because variables are infinite and not controllable like on a circuit.

Do you think safe driving courses should be mandatory for all new drivers?

They would certainly help young people who are just starting to drive a lot, but I don't think it's right to make them mandatory. I believe more in education and awareness. If a person truly understands the importance of safe driving, they'll practice it naturally.

Do you think road safety education in schools is sufficient or would something more be needed?

I've heard very little about road safety in schools, and I think it's right to address this topic especially in high schools. It's precisely in those years that many kids start riding mopeds and then get their license. It would be fundamental for them to receive adequate training on road risks and the importance of respecting rules.

As a driver, do you feel the responsibility to be a positive example on the road too?

Being a driver, yes, I absolutely feel responsible for making people understand that you shouldn't race on the road. I have to demonstrate that you can be passionate about speed and at the same time respectful of road rules. It's important to make people understand that racing on track doesn't mean you can do whatever you want on the road.

If they asked you to participate in a road safety campaign, what would you answer?

I think it would be very useful to make people understand this difference between track and road, and maybe promote safe driving courses. I would accept without doubt, because I believe a driver has the duty to use their experience to educate young people. I could tell how to drive safely, the importance of concentration, of respect for other road users.

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A Message of Responsibility

Riccardo's words reflect a maturity and awareness that go beyond his young age. His experience in the racing world, where safety is the supreme value, has taught him that true speed is expressed in the right context, with the right protections and in respect of rules.

As a professional driver and as a young person about to get his license, Riccardo represents an important example for his generation: you can love speed and at the same time be ambassadors of responsible driving.

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The topic of road safety is fundamental for everyone, but even more so for young people. Riccardo Ianniello, with his unique experience as a professional driver and future new driver, offers a valuable perspective on how to reconcile passion and responsibility.