The ZV riders are lining up at the start line of this final motocross trial.
They are looking to repeat the same success off-road
as they have had in their victories on the track.
It's an interesting experiment,
which may bring further success to this great manufacturer.
The leading group, already some distance ahead of the other competitors,
is made up of riders on large-cylinder ZV engines.
However, Carlo Benni is also amongst them.
This young man, who has had a very successful year,
is today riding a small-cylinder engine.
Go, Carlo!
Go, Benni! He's fantastic!
Benni's a good rider, but Cimino has to win.
Benni's engine is less powerful.
- Engineer! - Excuse me, Lucia,
I don't think your father is so happy about Benni's riding.
- Get him to slow down at once. - Dad, I'm going to the bend.
- Good girl, on you go. - Get Benni to slow down.
All right.
Benni!
Benni, slow down!
He doesn't want to listen.
Amazing!
Come on, Carlo! Come on!
' Come on! Go! - GO! GO!
Amazing! Even though Benni's riding a 175 cc,
which we thought had been presented here purely for experimental purposes,
continues to increase his lead in first place.
Throughout the race he has compensated for a lack of power
by riding with skill that at times borders on reckless.
What's this, a new strategy?
What did you tell your signalman?
I gave orders for Carlo Benni to slow down.
Why? Do you want to stop him from winning?
Of course. Your hero is putting an important contract at risk.
We have to sell our 500 to the army, not the 175.
Oh, a fixed race? Was it like that when you were racing?
Of course, that's why I stopped racing.
One rider is the same as another, these days.
Races are won before the riders ever get to the track.
What about Nuvolari?
It'd be the same with him. A man by himself cannot win.
The manufacturer, the engine, the organisation wins the race.
Well, then Benni isn't very organised!
It looks like he's going to win it!
What's he doing? He's crazy!
Thank goodness there's still someone who will disobey you.
- He has it won. And by some distance! - Did you see?
Benni is about to win in style,
beating his Benni and the rest of the competitors.
He takes the chequered flag with a scorching finish!
Your 175 is a fantastic bike. Shame it's not right for the army.
But you see, Colonel, the 500s weren't going at full throttle.
That's not how it seemed to me. In any case, I'll call you.
- Goodbye and thank you. - Goodbye, Colonel.
- That madman! - Don't, sir
- It's my job to deal with our riders. - Very well.
Congratulations, Benni.
- Thank you. - You rode a great race.
- But you were wrong to. - I won.
You weren't meant to. Didn't you see the signal?
No.
I'll talk to you about this at the factory tomorrow.
Ya, sir. I want to talk to you as well.
A photograph, please.
Ready. Now hold still. Done.
All right, we'll talk about it later
We've finished, miss. Please, show Benni in.
This way, please.
That's all for now.
- Cigarette? - No, thanks.
Benni, you're a second level test rider, and you've done well up until now.
You have the necessary qualities to race for Team ZV.
We have decided to withdraw from all competitions,
so that we can present a new bike at the Milano-Taranto Race.
That's six months from now and we have to be ready to win it.
But you won't win the Milano-Taranto. Team ZV will win it.
And Team ZV will choose the rider that will win it.
We already have that rider
And I beat him yesterday riding a less powerful engine.
He had orders not to forte his engine.
He obeyed his orders.
In any case, it's better not to talk about what happened yesterday.
We will need another four riders to participate in the race, understand?
Yes.
- We're in agreement then? - No.
- Do you want to remain a test rider? - No. No, Engineer
I'm sick of having to brake when I'm racing.
I'm sick of slowing down. I'm sick of letting others win.
Not to mention preparing bikes for other people to ride, understand?
You used to race, you know all about it.
Now, you want to manufacture riders the same way you manufacture bikes.
Well, you can't. Courage can't be manufactured.
We don't need to. It's a common enough commodity.
Let's get back to us. What then?
Manufacture another rider in my place! It won't make any difference.
Pick anyone.
A mechanic or an accountant, or the lift operator.
Or return to racing yourself, so that Cimino can win.
I think we've said everything there is to be said, Benni.
- It's your decision. - I've already decided.
But I hope I'll meet you and your puppets again, Engineer
I hope to meet you at the start of the Milano-Taranto.
Benni, Benni! Where are you going?
- I was coming to see you in the factory. - Did you need something?
No, I wanted to congratulate you on your magnificent ride yesterday.
Engineer Angelini had the same idea, but with different results.
Why, what happened?
Nothing. I've quit.
- What? You're joking. - I quit.
I quit. I'm not riding for your team anymore.
Ifs not possible. How could Piero...
I'll speak to Engineer Angelini at once.
No, don't bother Goodbye, miss.
Wait. I'll give you a lift. Hop in.
It's a radio.
It's strange, the few times I've watched a race,
you were always racing. Must be a coincidence.
Today's the first time I've met you in person,
but it's as if I already know you.
Strange, isn't it?
- I was so happy you won yesterday. - So was I. I race to win.
You're right.
I'm like you. I don't like obeying others.
Your situation permits you to.
- Here we are. - Have we arrived already?
These are the ZV houses. Didn't you know that?
If you want you can call me. We can see each other again.
There must be some way to resolve this situation.
- Who's she? - My wife.
- Oh, you're married. - For four years.
Well, goodbye, Benni. As I said, if there's anything I can do...
No, thank you. This hasn't got to do with you or your father
- Engineer Angelini? - No, not him either Just me.
- Thank you, miss... - Lucia.
Goodbye then, Benni. And good luck.
Carlo, I wanted it to be a surprise.
Today's a day full of surprises.
Tell me, who was that beautiful girl?
Parisi's daughter She insisted on giving me a lift.
She looked very beautiful from up here.
Yes, she's beautiful. What of it, Giovanna? Leave me be...
Haven't you noticed? I painted it all by myself.
What... What's wrong?
You've been wasting your time. I've done something stupid.
I've quit Team ZV
They were angry because you won again yesterday, weren't they?
Exactly. Those ungrateful...
Do you understand? I'm not allowed to win!
And these are my best years!
If I wait for them to tell me I can win, I won't be the rider I am now.
If it's not too late by then.
I've had enough with racing.
It's a luxury we can't afford. I need to find a proper job.
- Did you hear me? - Yes.
I'm finished. Do you believe me this time?
No, I don't believe you. You have to continue racing.
You won't be happy if you can't become a champion.
I couldn't stand it any longer I couldn't stay there.
I know, Carlo. You did the right thing.
But now we have to go. We have to leave this house, understand?
That's not important. We'll find ourselves another one.
Where? It won't be easy to find another job.
In the meantime, we can go back to Dad. He knows lots of people.
He likes you. It'll be the three of us, just like before.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is our honour to present for the first time in this city,
direct from Australia, The Wall of Death!
Icchi and Trevi, two of the greatest riders to have ever lived,
are here to offer you a quarter of an hour of unforgettable thrills!
Icchi and Trevi, the men who can defy the laws of gravity!
Well done, Carlo, it's the first smart decision you've made in your life.
And I mean every word of it!
Angelini, Parisi... Who are they after all?
What do they know about anything?
Nothing! Never! Fools!
Do you know how many offers they've made me? Even now.
They wanted to buy my freedom.
No chance! There isn't enough money in the world.
I'll never accept their ideas. Race tactics! What's that all about?
What you need are good riders!
Men with courage and heart and quick reflexes,
a strong wrist and arms of steel!
Look at that!
1932 at the Solitude Racetrack!
Mud and rain! Weather a dog wouldn't go out in!
And I won! Now, those were races!
Never mind what they say. You have to be one with the bike.
Never be taken by surprise, and when the time's right,
full throttle and get every last drop from your engine.
As long as you're even a fraction of a second ahead of the others.
Those guys only know how to draw, they don't understand anything.
Look at this! 20 years of work.
I've worked on this my whole life! No one believed me.
But I've done it, my engine!
Bit by bit! A direct injection engine!
It's a rocket!
This beauty will really move! Faster than the wind!
Carlo, this engine will make you World Champion!
Meanwhile, I'll fix you up with a 500.
You'll practise on the roads, every morning at six.
Bend after bend!
You have to learn how to race with your head.
- What's wrong? - No, Lorenzo.
No more motorcycles. I need a proper job.
What?
Thank you, but I need to work. I can't sponge off you.
Of course you have to work! I'll find you a job.
I still know plenty of people in this business.
Everyone knows me.
Just because you see me like this now, you forget that I...
I won six gold medals!
Yes, Dad, and seven silver medals.
You I still been World Champion, but they cheated you out of it.
You're right. But let's not dwell on that.
I have a job for you straight away.
What did the priest say in church?
The husband has to help the wife, just as the wife has to help the husband.
Simple as that! Her name used to be famous.
She's never been afraid, she's her father's daughter
She was a big attraction. Everybody wanted to see her.
She'll be a big success now, too. That's how she'll help us.
Come forward, ladies and gentlemen, this unique show is about to begin!
Here's the star of the show!
Ladies and gentlemen, a member of the fairer sex,
is going to defy death with acrobatics feats
that no man could achieve!
The maiden on the motorcycle! The beauty on the bike!
Let's get this show started!
In you go, ladies and gentlemen!
Come here you.
So, you're being mean as well?
They've left us all alone, those nasty men!
Everything went well. The bike was perfect.
Over here! Thank you!
Hold on!
Attention, clear the track!
Five, four, three,
two, one, go!
Did you see? Benni has overtaken them all!
Benni has already moved clear into first place.
Here he comes past the main stand.
He continues on his way, hardly even slowing at the bends,
which he slaloms through in his distinctive style!
Fantastic!
He has it won!
- So, do we have an agreement? - Huh?
- No. - What do you mean, no?
I've never made a rider such a good job offer
Not even ZV pays that well.
Haven't you seen what you're dealing with?
- Carlo's no beginner, he's a champion! - Sure, a champion!
Benni is now beginning to lap the other riders.
We apologise for our enthusiasm in commenting on his racing,
but we are proud to be witnessing this display of courage and power.
Go, Carlo!
Did you see how he came out from that bend?
Now then, I want to hold the exclusive Fulgor dealership in my city.
But we already have an exclusive dealership there.
Well, take away his exclusivity and give it to me!
Here, like this! A strong wrist and arms of steel!
It's a deal, Pasolini! Come on, let's go to the finish line.
The lead rider has just come around the last bend!
And Benni takes the chequered flag!
A very important victory for this independent rider,
and one which fully justifies the public's extraordinary enthusiasm.
I don't think it's an exaggeration to declare what we have witnessed today
as the consecration of a new champion!
Let's hope that Benni is soon able to participate
in upcoming races on a motorcycle that matches his ability.
Good luck, Benni!
Am Ito be the only one not to shake your hand, my dear Benni?
What brings you here? Your bikes weren't racing.
- But you were. - You came to watch me?
- May I have your autograph, please? - Me too, Mr. Benni.
Thank you.
- Carlo! Carlo! - Excuse me a minute.
Carlo! You were fantastic!
Great! As smooth as oil!
First place, a job and this!
This is Pasolini from Fulgor
- Nice to meet you. And so? - I'm their new representative.
- No! - Yes! No more amusement park!
I'll open a workshop and build my motorcycle under Parisi's nose.
- What are you talking about? - We're going home!
- Home? - I'm selling everything! Everything!
I'll sell The Wall of Death and we'll move back home.
Doesn't that sound good to you?
Yes, of course.
Come on, over here.
Thank you.
To the right. A bit more.
A bit forward.
All right.
No. Fill her up.
Well, they've done a nice job here.
Do you know who they are? They're from ZV
What do you care? They're customers too.
You're right.
Look who it is! Lorenzo.
I heard you opened up a workshop.
Do you think you'll sell many of these things?
"Things", Mr Parisi? These are high quality motorcycles.
- The best there is! - Maybe for the first six months.
My deal; Lorenzo, customers are getting smarter all the time.
What, do you mean they'd rather walk?
- No, they ride ZVs. - Of course.
Come on inside, I'll show you our sales register
You can see how many idiots there are about these days.
Quite a few, you know!
My son-in-law Benni is an idiot, too, I suppose?
Did you read about his victories in the newspapers?
He rides well enough.
But it's easy to win when the ZVs aren't racing.
- Sure. - See you at the Milano-Taranto.
- Good luck! - Thanks! And good luck to you!
Do you know them?
They're the ones that know me. Everybody knows me.
Engineer, I wouldn't be surprised if that little garage were to become a factory.
Three of them, working together
Working just for yourself doesn't make any sense.
You work hard, really hard, you get a fortune...
I have Lucia. But Lucia is a woman.
And as you well know, women are a different matter altogether.
She was a child when her mother died.
She's always done whatever she wants to, and I've always let her.
But at least if she married and had some children.
Boys! Three or four boys!
It's the least one can expect from a woman.
Don't you think so?
Laugh all you want, but that's how it is!
Moreover, Engineer,
some time ago, you two used to often go out together
Even too often, I used to think, but now...
That's your fault. You work me too hard!
To be honest, it used to annoy me a bit.
I thought, "Along comes this handsome young man.
He'll marry my daughter and without breaking a sweat
take over 40 years of my hard work."
And now you're upset with Lucia,
when really your daughter spared you this displeasure.
All the same, it's a shame.
On you go, overtake.
- Ifs a beautiful spot, isn't it? - Yes.
It's a bit strange, a bit sad.
- Haven't you ever been here before? - Never
- Carlo, where were you born? - In this city.
Just imagine, we lived all these years in the same place and never met.
I used to see you from a distance, Lucia.
From now on, I only want to see you close up.
Without hiding, without fear
How can we do it? There must be a way.
No, Lucia, you know that. I feel the same, but there's no way.
Then why did we ever start? To tell each other this?
You're right, we made a mistake.
We I only never begun seeing each other
We knew that, but we did it anyway!
No, Carlo, there's always a way to work things out, believe me.
- I didn't start seeing you on a whim. - Of course.
But now listen to me. It's not too late.
It'll be easier for both of us when we're far apart.
I'm leaving tomorrow. I'm going to France to race.
- To France? For how long? - Ten, twelve days. I'm not sure.
- I'm coming with you! - No, there's no point. It's impossible.
- You'd only realise yourself that... - No, Carlo, I won't give up!
First, I want to be sure it's a mistake.
I'm coming with you.
I've an aunt in Paris, she's invited me there many times.
My father will give me permission, I'm certain of it.
Just think, we can see each other every day!
Aren't you happy?
For me, it's very important.
Don't think you're on a sightseeing trip,
for better or worse we'll be the only ones representing Italian industry.
- Ah, colleagues. - Colleagues?
I heard you say you're representatives. So am I.
- No, we're motorcyclists. - What are you a representative of?
Hangers. Patented plastic hangers.
The type you hang your jacket on in a wardrobe. Coat hangers.
- May I? - Please.
Thank you.
Finally!
Any longer and I would've come looking for you.
I wasn't able to get away. I'm sorry.
Is that true?
- Don't you believe me? - I heard you laughing.
Don't get angry-
Please, try to understand, I'm not used to hiding what I do.
But I don't care about that.
I'll become great at lying.
About time!
It went great. I won, even though my transmission was giving trouble.
I saw you.
One day racing, the next day practice...
Racing and practising. Ten days of it!
I'm serious, Carlo, I'm sick of watching you from the stands.
You're right. Me too. You're always too far from me.
- But this evening we can do what we want. - I'm visiting my aunt this evening.
I've promised her since I got here.
Call her up, find an excuse.
A friend, another commitment, anything at all.
I'll call her if you want. Let's go dancing tonight.
- Are you even able to? - Dance?
You must be joking. Let's go.
- What was wrong with your transmission? - Well, on the third lap I heard...
Oh, I know well you don't care about that!
- Carlo! Carlo! - Carlo!
- Carlo, I... - Hello!
Well done, my boy, you did great! You beat them all!
I'm very happy with you!
Carlo, I didn't hear from you once. You never wrote to me!
- I had to read about it in the newspaper. - Of course he didn't write.
Men always have lots to do, and wives never understand that!
- I don't know about that... - Not another word!
Let's go home, kids!
Come on! We still have lots of work to do.
- Good morning, Miss. - Good morning.
I have to talk with you, Miss. I'm Carlo Benni's wife.
Not here, please. Let's take a drive.
Well, what did you want to say to me? I'm sorry, but I'm in a hurry.
I know. You're meeting Carlo.
He was in a hurry too when he left the house.
I don't know what you're talking about.
There's no point in lying, Miss Parisi. I know everything.
But don't think I'm here to beg you.
And I'm not here to tell you that you made a mistake or are doing wrong.
Sometimes, these things aren't all that important, but...
Look, continuing like this will do no good for anyone.
- You don't have to worry about me. - What do you hope to gain?
Carlo's not like you. He's like me.
The two of you don't have anything in common.
- Leave him be. - So, you've thought of everything.
But what if I really do care for Carlo?
No, I don't think so. I've seen you in the stands at races.
You're were excited, happy.
Whoever loves, feels fear They don't enjoy themselves.
You don't know what it means to be the wife of a racer,
to be afraid for your man, to watch him risk his life every day.
Everyone reacts in their own way.
Look, ma'am, you're the one who wanted to have this conversation,
and so I feel obliged to be sincere.
I didn't plan any of this in advance and I don't have any ulterior motives.
I love Carlo. This isn't just some passing fancy.
So, why should I lose him? Because he's your husband?
Yes, that's one reason. A family lasts forever
Sooner or later, everything else comes to an end.
Carlo came to me out of his own free will. He's married, he knew what he was doing.
- It won't be me who sends him away. - What if he wants to end it?
In that case, you don't have to worry. I'm not the clingy type.
I don 't make scenes or tragedies.
We agree then.
- Are you certain he'll choose you? - Yes, I'm sure of it!
And I'll do everything to make certain of it.
I was just about to go.
- I know, I'm late. - More than half an hour.
- No, I'm just a few minutes late. - If I say...
Lucia, what's wrong? You're crying.
- Carlo, do you really love me? - What's this all about?
- I met your wife. - My wife?
She came to find me.
Carlo, I don't know what I should do!
Did you notice when Carlo's friends come to see him?
I don 't know how, but they always end up in here.
They're spies. And that can mean only one thing.
That Parisi is afraid.
They know I'll be able to do it.
Giovanna, what's up with you? You're not even listening to me.
I'm doing all of this for you two. You ought to understand that.
I know.
"I know, I know, Dad." Meanwhile, here I am talking to myself.
"Talking to myself like an old madman.
Great! Here comes our champion!
Hello, Lorenzo.
Come upstairs, I have to talk to you.
Move yourself!
Well, what do you think you're playing at?!
Tell me, what do you think you're doing?!
Carlo, I'm your wife and I love you.
You know that, and I have the right...
You don't have the right to make a fool out of me!
If anything happens, you come to me about it!
No, Carlo, you're wrong. You don't know what you're saying.
- You're acting like a child! - Shut up!
You're shouting because you're wrong! Yes, I wanted to look her in the face.
Do you think she cares about you? She's just having fun!
- What? - Yes, she's a trollop!
What are you doing?!
You hit her
- You shouldn't have done that. - No, Dad, don't...
- She made me look like a fool! - Go! Tell him to go!
Go! You've never loved me. Go! Go!
- Lorenzo, try to understand. - Get out!
- But... Lorenzo, I... - Go out now!
- Out! - We mustn't...
I don't ever want to see you again! Get out! It's over!
- Get out! - Lorenzo, you're making a big mistake!
Giovanna, don't cry.
- Don't cry. - He doesn't love me anymore!
My dean.
- It's you, Lucia. At this hour - Yes, I...
- What are you doing, Piero? - Preparing reports for the riders.
We're transferring to Milano tomorrow.
- To what do I owe the honour? - Am I bothering you?
Quite the opposite. My work used to interest you.
- You're my friend, aren't you? - What do you mean?
I'm leaving, Piero. I'm going to be with him.
I can't stay here any longer. I just can't.
Everything's happening so suddenly.
Carlo Benni has left his wife for me.
- Are you happy now? - Don't be mean, Piero.
He's been waiting for me in Milano for three days.
I can't leave him now.
I'm leaving tomorrow. You have to be brave in your actions.
First, you have to be sure what you want. Do you really love him?
Of course.
Besides, I don't have any other choice.
Everyone is the master of their own destiny.
Isn't that what you've always believed?
You two are too different. You're making a big mistake.
- Don't judge by appearances. - Sometimes there's no other way.
Do you realise what you're doing? He's a married man.
What do think will become of you?
I've already thought about that.
What about your father? You'll put him in a difficult situation.
That's why I came to you. I'd never be able to explain it to him.
Piero, you have to help me.
You're the only one I can turn to.
You're asking a lot from me, Lucia. I'll do it.
But not for you. For your father
All of you already know how important this race is for us.
Perhaps our engines aren't as fast, but they are more reliable.
Therefore, we can win.
The rider to beat is Carlo Benni.
Cimino, you're the team's number one rider
The other tea ms know that, and so does Carlo Benni.
They'll all be after you from start to finish.
Difficult conditions to win in. Don't you agree, Cimino?
I'm sorry, but you won't take first position.
Instead, you'll win it, Pessi.
No one will be after you and you won't have to worry about anyone else.
I'm choosing you because you're the most self-disciplined.
You'll have to obey my race plan to the letter.
You will get precise orders and instructions for the entire course.
The others will attack Benni, forcing him to push his engine.
Here are your updated race plans.
Study them well,
and let me know any observations you may have.
I'll be following the race from the air,
and if necessary, I'll give orders at the checkpoints.
- Engineer. . - What is it, Cimino?
Engineer Angelini, I understand your reasons,
but I'm very well-prepared, you know that.
I was certain I would've had a free run at it this time.
I've been waiting for so long. Trust in me, Engineer!
Cimino, my responsibilities are more important than your personal ambition.
I can't take risks.
We have to win, and win well.
That's all that matters.
You may go now.
Hello? Hello?
Yes, it's me.
What? No.
I said no. Listen, Mr Pasolini, tell them to go to hell!
I don't want to see any journalists!
Don't worry, Fulgor will get plenty of free publicity in the newspapers;
I intend to win this race!
No, I can't go anywhere.
What do you mean, "discipline"?
I don't care! I don't give a damn about anyone else!
Carlo! Carlo, what's going on?
Ah, so you finally decided to come!
I've been holed up in this place for a week waiting for you!
I wasn't able to come before now.
Do you think it was easy, deciding so suddenly?
Of course, things become difficult when you actually have to act.
Carlo, it's incredible,
I take the most courageous decision of my life...
- Courageous! - Why, yes!
And this is how you treat me. I can hardly recognise you.
I don't recognise myself either
Before, my life was straightforward, but now...
You sound regretful. Aren't you happy to see me?
I told you, I've been waiting for you fora week!
So what? How can you not understand?
It was so very difficult. I didn't know how to tell my father
- Did you tell him? - No. I couldn't find the courage to.
I begged Piero... Engineer Angelini to do it for me.
Ah, Piero! That's kind of him.
- He's a friend. - Yes, yes, I'm sure he is.
That's enough, Carlo. All this carrying on is ridiculous.
It's as if you're doing it on purpose.
As though you never wanted to be in this situation in the first place.
That's not true. It seems the exact opposite to me.
Don't blame me for what you're thinking, Lucia.
I understood as soon as I saw you.
You weren't happy to come, you felt obliged. Isn't that the truth?
You like playing the courageous woman who suffers the consequences,
who sees things through to the end and assumes responsibility.
Enough! That's enough!
You're being unfair You've said enough.
What are you doing now?
This isn't the right moment to talk about it.
I'm going home. You'll see me after the race.
Until then, you can think about all the mean things you've said to me.
I hope you win, Carlo.
Bruno Francisci at the start line,
the holder of the Milano-Taranto average speed record of 126 KM per hour
Four, three, two, one, go!
Number 330 to the start-line.
Five...
- Here he is now. - ...four, three, two...
As you know, Benni is Team Fulgor's number one rider
Why don't you go on ahead to Taranto,
and you can interview him at the finish line, right, Benni?
Benni, did you hear me? What's up with him tonight?
- Good evening, Piero. - Lucia, it's you.
How's Father? What did he say?
He doesn't know anything. I haven't spoken to him.
- Where is he now? - Over there with our riders.
- Good boys, over here. - A shot with your men.
Be quick about it, huh?
Off you go, boys! And good luck!
Five, four, three...
two, one, go!
Number 413, Benni, to the start-line.
Attention, attention.
Five, four, three...
two, one, go!
Number 414, Martegani,
to the star: line.
The first of the high-powered motorcycles have already started
to arrive earlier than expected at the first checkpoint.
Quick!
Take it easy, Benni, don't push her too hard.
You're already ahead of time. Don't forte her!
Cimino, it's your tum now. Attack him straight after Firenze.
Remember that.
Go!
Excuse me, please!
- No one can stop him! - Dad!
Yes, I came too. I wanted to see.
Always stay below 5000 revs, understand? Go!
Having thrown themselves head first into this 1400 km race,
the riders now take full advantage of their powerful engines
along the straights.
We can already see the big story of the race developing:
the battle between the large cylinder ZV and Fulgor engines.
Taking race times into account, the race is currently being led by number 412,
Cimino on the ZV
But Benni, the Fulgor champion, who left Milano shortly after him,
is close behind him.
The riders make their way to sign the check point register in person.
The leaders have already passed through Rome:
number 412, Cimino, on the ZV, in 5 hours and 38 minutes,
and number 413, Benni, on the Fulgor
Listeners, I don't think I'm capable
of finding the words to describe the spectacle we're witnessing.
Cimino and Benni are flying along the road
at a speed that our low-flying aircraft is having trouble maintaining.
Cimino leads, but Benni is only a few metres behind.
As we drop down closer to them,
our speedometer indicates speeds of over 200 KM per hour
Cimino is holding off Benni's attacks. In fact, he seems to be gaining on him.
Cimino!
Cimino! Cimino!
Come on, you can make it.
Benni... I wanted to win it.
I could've won it, but they wouldn't let me.
Sign to slow down.
- Carlo... - Calm down.
- There's an oil spill. - Be careful, Carlo.
Watch out for Pessi. Angelini decided that he should win.
We made you push it hard.
Be careful. You can win it.
Listen, number 414, wearing a white helmet like mine.
- He has to stop. - I can't stop anyone.
But my bike is damaged, I have to keep racing!
Stop !
- Sorry, Martegani, but I need your bike. - Have you gone mad?!
- I'm number one, get off! - You're mad!
You can't do this in the middle of a race!
Come back here! Stop!
Officer, did you see that?! A telephone?
We're now coming to you live from Taranto.
We have some more news from the race check points,
and from our reporter in the sky.
Near Naples, and past the midway point of the race,
three ZV motorcycles are leading the race.
Carlo Benni, who managed to continue racing after the terrible accident,
in which Cimino was injured, is hot on their heels.
He's riding his Carlo Martegani's bike.
There is some controversy surrounding this bike swap,
as it took place without permission from their team.
Some people have even talked of disqualification.
What have you decided to do? Are we landing at the Naples check point?
No, there's no point. Let's go straight to Taranto.
We're coming to you live from Taranto as we await the race leaders.
Attention, some news from Bari.
After a furious pursuit, Benni has moved into first position.
LAST KM
At the far end of the home straight we can now make out
a rider approaching the finish line. He's pushing his motorcycle!
He's wearing a white helmet. It's Benni!
The crowd has gone crazy with excitement.
Come on, Benni!
Other riders are now rounding the final bend, and they've passed him!
As Benni continues to desperately push his motorcycle,
Pessi's ZV takes the chequered flag!
Followed by Girarldi, Sarti, and others riders.
The crowd keeps cheering Benni on.
Even if bad luck stopped him,
his wonderful riding displayed the quality that the crowd so loves.
- Did you forget something, Benni? - No.
I meant you forgot our orders!
Make sure you buy the papers tomorrow morning.
I'm sure some people will have the idea you're a hero.
Keep them, they'll be a memento of your last race.
I'm going to have you disqualified.
Attention, please keep the home straight clear.
A lot more competitors are approaching the finish line.
A group of five riders is now coming into view.
- Everything went perfectly. - Well done.
Thanks. Another one.
After our victory in the Milano-Taranto, orders have almost doubled in number
A huge amount of this success is due to Engineer Angelini.
Congratulations, Engineer.
- Thank you. - Well done.
Soon we will be unveiling a motorcycle that will revolutionize racing.
- One with a direct injection engine. - Fantastic. Something new.
Even this is a race.
The British and the Germans are working on one too.
- Good evening, Father - Hello, my dear
- Will yours be ready for Monza? - I don't think that'll be possible.
But thankfully, I happen to know that the Germans and the British
aren't any further ahead than we are.
- Lucia. - Oh, it's you.
- Did you find him? - No.
I asked his our orders, the hotel staff, Fulgor employees,
but no one could tell me where he is.
He disappeared right after they fired him. Did you hear anything?
The Federation has disqualified him for a long time.
- You must be happy. - I don't see why.
- You got everything you wanted. - I never wanted this.
You wanted him out of the way, and now he is.
It's a great victory. You can be proud of yourself.
Ya, I wanted to win the race. That's my job.
Don't talk to me about races. You make me laugh.
You race from the sidelines. Risking the lives of others.
We've already had this conversation, more than once.
There's no point starting again. We'll never share the same point of view.
Of course not, you're only interested in your calculations.
As long as in the end they add up, isn't that so?
No, it isn't. Anyway, why get mad at me?
I told you it couldn't last. It was a big mistake.
Yes, it was a mistake. And I was the one who made the mistake.
I was only thinking about myself.
I had no right to do what I did before the race.
No one could've won in that flame of mind.
You know that.
Yes, hello.
- It's for you. - I don't want to talk to anyone.
Yes. One minute.
It's from Milano.
Hello?
Hello, yes.
Hello?
Hello?!
Hello! Hello!
Finished already? That was quick!
- How much? - 420 lira.
- Add it to my tab. - Sure thing, Mr. Benni.
Hey, isn't that Benni, the motorcycle racer?
How would I know? So?
Three espressos and a token for the jukebox.
Well, have you decided? It's only for six months.
Benni, what's the problem here? You're disqualified, you can't race.
It's different abroad, they're not official races.
They're not even races, they're a joke.
I forgot, you're used to racing for glory,
you don't care about money!
Don't you get it? We can make good money off the betting circuit boo!
Do whatever you want.
I just made you an offer I thought I was doing you a favour
Wait...
When would I have to leave?
This evening if possible. The season's already begun.
- Do you have a passport? - Yes.
All right, let's drink to it.
Two glasses!
Are you crazy, Carlo?! You must be crazy riding like that!
Slow down! You're mad!
We'll off the track!
Benni, slow down!
We won 't make it!
Slow down! I said slow down!
PLAYING WITH DEATH
- Well, anything new? - No, nothing.
Signing IOUs is easy.
But when they smell blood they go for you like sharks.
- There must be some way to... - Of course there's a way.
Walk away from it. Shut up shop.
Have everything shipped away, for a measly few bucks.
Even that thing over there.
Dad, you can't give up on the Arrow.
What else can I do? It's pointless.
And now, when we could've won at Monza!
In a year's time, they'll all have one.
All the manufacturers are working on it.
Yes, but soon there's the European Grand Prix.
And who am I going to put on it? Should I ride it myself?
Officer of the Courts.
I'm sorry, but...
I must seize the premises.
Well, that's it then.
I couldn't find anyone. No one wants to race with me.
I know, Benni, but maybe you can also understand why.
- So, what can I do? - Use a dead weight. A sandbag.
On those crazy bends, I'll be straight off the track carrying a dead weight.
What are you trying to tell me? You signed a contract and accepted money.
If you're afraid, you I do thought of that earlier
Afraid? I don 't care if I crack my skull open.
What? You're like a cat, nine lives! If only there were more like you.
I sorted out your situation, which was somewhat irregular, and now...
Now I'm trapped here. My passport is locked in here.
You've thought of everything, haven't you?
What do you expect? I can't do business with my emotions.
- Of course, you sell excitement. - First I have to buy it.
You're right. I'm not the emotional type either
No one forced him to go abroad.
Now, you're being disingenuous. You know why Carlo left.
Yes, I know. But all I care about is what you intend to do.
Could I stop him from racing?
You could always try.
So now you want to send me to him!
I don't want anything.
After the Milano-Taranto you moved heaven and earth to find him,
and now you know where he is you're not going to him.
Who said I'm not going?
You don't know me very well if you think I'm not capable of it.
You're too intelligent to ruin your life.
What are you trying to say? That it was some kind of game for me?
No, you were being sincere.
But before you weren't thinking clearly, now you are.
What would you know?
You're unbearable! You think you know everything!
Why? Because I'm honest with you and force you to look inside yourself?
That's never pleasant for anyone.
I'll get you something to drink.
What did he say?
They're not happy about you racing with a dead weight. And they're right.
If you lose control on a bend you could put them at risk too.
Then tell them to keep their distance. Mr Schmidt has OKed it.
An Italian lady? To see me?
- Giovanna! Why are you here? - No, don't.
Carlo, this time you have to listen to me.
I haven't come here for your sake or for my sake.
But for my father Things are going very badly.
They're going to take everything from us, even the Arrow!
We have to make sure this doesn't happen, at all costs!
- Will you help us, Carlo? - Of course, Giovanna, but I...
I can't leave this place, my hands are tied.
They have my passport. I have to pay them to get it back.
- How much, Carlo? - Too much.
- Don't you have anything? - Unless I bet everything on me.
You'll kill yourself if you race with a dead weight!
I have to win this race. Wait for me here.
Excuse me, where is the race director?
Thank you.
Carlo Benni.
Yes, to win.
- Here. You're at 20 to 1. - Thanks, Ferri.
- If everything goes well... - Don't worry about it, a beer will do.
Good luck!
- What's going on? - Wonderful!
- He gave me the OK. - I won't allow it.
- I can't do anything, it's too late. - You'd have lost with the dead weight.
Faster, we have to win! Do it for me! Faster, Carlo!
Magnificent!
Thank you, Giovanna.
- Did I make you wait long? - No, you're right on time.
Thank you.
Will I see you this evening?
Of course! Why are asking me that?
- Because Carlo Benni has returned. - I know.
- Have you seen him? - No.
- Then how do you know he's back? - There's always a friend who tells you.
His wife went to find him.
They've gotten back together and have returned.
- It's better this way. - Do you mean that?
I've always told the truth, even when it was difficult to do so.
If I were to see him again it wouldn't change anything.
In you get.
Are you really over him?
- Piero, I already said so. - All right.
I have to get some petrol.
- Will I fill her? - No, thanks.
- It's closed. - At this time of the day?
All day every day. It's been seized by the courts, miss.
I knew they had troubles, but I didn't think it was this bad.
Well? Don't you want to see us meeting anymore?
Go on, call Carlo. Isn't that why we're here?
Forgive me, Lucia, I'm sorry.
Sometimes, a person in love can be unfair, mean even.
- It's not a question of trust. - I understand, you don't have it.
It's not a good moment, you know how it is?
- Did you try Lavanzi? - I already have. I've tried everyone.
Don't worry, Rossetti, you're a good friend.
- Do you want something to drink? - No, I'm running late.
Bye:
- How are you? - Listen...
I received your card, but...
Why, Lucia? There's no reason for us to see each other
- But you still came. - Yes.
Only to say that to you, believe me.
I know.
But we're not enemies, are we?
No, Lucia. We're not enemies.
I know you're in a difficult situation.
They've seized everything, even the Arrow.
They must be happy at ZV
Carlo, that's what I wanted to see you about.
I feel responsible for this situation. Maybe more so than you, Carlo.
- I want to help you. - What? You must be joking!
A loan. This has nothing to do with your dignity.
We're like two strangers now, you said so yourself.
If you want, we can make out an IOU and you can pay me interest.
Whatever you want.
How can you even think of making such an offer to me?
Come on, Carlo, don't act like that.
I swear, if I'd thought there could still be something between us...
- What do you mean? - I think it's quite clear
Sorry, but haven't you been looking for a loan?
From everyone. Everyone I know. Friends, strangers...
Well then? I'm the same as anyone else.
A friend. A stranger, if you prefer. Nothing else.
Carlo, it's a loan, that's all.
- Yes, Engineer? - Call me Miss Parisi.
What is it, miss?
Well, it's a little difficult for me to tell you this.
I saw the list of the riders and the motorcycles participating at Monza.
Aren't we entering the direct injection engine in the race?
No.
Engineer, I know it's none of my business,
- but please believe, I... - Please, miss, what is this about?
Someone else will be racing at Monza with a direct injection engine.
Carlo Benni with the Arrow.
- The Arrow has been seized. - Not any longer
It's a delicate matter, and I don't want to be misunderstood.
The bank manager called to inform me of a cheque signed by Miss Parisi,
made payable to Carlo Benni.
I thought you should know.
That it was the right thing to do for the team.
You were right.
- I'd like to ask that... - Don't worry.
I'll see to this. Not even Mr Parisi will know.
In any case, thank you.
Miss Parisi is on the line.
Tell her I've gone out.
- Hello. - Hello.
I'm sorry, miss, but Engineer Angelini is very busy.
Did you tell him I was looking for him?
Yes, but he's busy. He can't cancel the trial.
- Very well. Tell him to call me later - Yes, miss.
Like that.
Ready!
- Understand? - Yes.
I don't think it's ready yet.
- Let's start. - Yes, Engineer
- Well? - She said for you to call her
Never mind that. So, what do you think?
Listen, I don't think the bike is ready yet.
It's unstable over 200 km per hour You know that as well as I do.
Ya, but we don't have any more time to work on it.
Tullio, we'll bring her out to the track this evening.
- Who? You, Engineer? - Of course.
And not a word to anyone!
Pass me a number 9.
No, a number 8.
- Carlo. - Huh?
And he didn't even want an IOU?
No. I told you, Rossetti's a good friend.
We made out a receipt and that was it.
Thank goodness there are still people like him about.
- Good. - It's ready.
- Let's start her up. - Now? Inside?
Where else? Come on, star: her up!
All right.
Giovanna, listen to her sing!
Now it's up to him to prove his worth!
Carlo, come here. Shake my hand.
- Thank you, Lorenzo. - This is how it should be.
- You're my kids. - Thank you, Lorenzo.
And now, to Monza!
It's the day before the much anticipated Nations Grand Prix.
Tomorrow, in front of a passionate crowd, the best motorcycle racers in the world
will be at the centre of countless heated duels.
But today, they are only competing against the clock.
The competitors are giving it their all,
to ensure the best possible position on the starting grid tomorrow.
Incredible!
Carlo Benni on the Arrow has just taken two seconds off the hack record.
We're just awaiting official confirmation now.
At this point, it looks like tomorrow's big race
will be a tight duel between two superb motorcycles
and two world-class racers.
Piero Angelini is now getting ready to leave the pits fora qualification lap.
- Nice racing, Benni. - Hello, Engineer.
- I'm happy to see you racing with us. - Of course.
...gave up competitive racing three years ago to become Team ZV Director
Well done, Carlo. You were great!
No one can beat you, take my word for it.
I can still improve. We'll show Team ZV
- Engineer - Huh?
Nothing. Good luck.
Angelini's motorcycle is the only one in Team ZV fitted with the new engine.
The rest have normal 500 cc engines,
which in any case have already won countless victories.
Already on the first lap, Angelini's bike appears faster than the other ZVs.
We could see all records being beaten tomorrow.
However, only if these new engines can prove themselves to be ready
to take on this demanding Nations Grand Prix track.
What's he doing?
Angelini had a slight wobble coming out of that bend,
but he recovered in perfect style.
The years away from racing don't seem to have had any affect
on this great champion's ability.
One minute and 52 seconds! Another remarkable time.
Given what we've see here today, first place tomorrow should be a fight
between the two motorcycles registered to race at the last minute.
Take off the engine and check everything.
At once.
- What happened at that bend? - I don't know.
- Did I beat him? - No, one second slower.
- Engineer, may I... - Please, no reporters!
Please, Engineer Angelini doesn't want to be disturbed. Perhaps later
It looks like it will be difficult for any of them to record quicker times
than those posted by their two world-class adversaries.
Give me a cigarette.
Engineer Angelini, withdraw. I'm sorry, but withdraw from the race.
I'm saying this as though you were my own son.
Please, give it up!
No. I didn't say anything all during training.
- But now I have to say something. - Do me a favour!
Why don't you go and find out the official time?
It's always that damned bend!
But tomorrow I can beat him, I'm sure of that!
No, you can't. The bike isn't ready.
- Withdraw it from the race. - The bike's in perfect condition!
- It doesn't hold the road over 200! - That's not true, it's perfect!
Then, do you want me to say it?
You're not in perfect condition. You're not the racer you once were.
After the accident you had, you're afraid!
What did you say?!
Forgive me, sir
After a great day of motor racing, the crowd of 150,000 is eagerly awaiting
the day's big race: the battle of the large cylinder engines.
In the meantime, the eagerly race has entered the closing stages.
The battle between the Italian and German teams looks to be over:
the lap times recorded by the Albino Milani Team
have exceeded all expectations.
The magnificent crowd packed into the stands...
I'd like to be in your place today, Carlo.
Yes, sir
- Tullio? Where's Tullio? - I don't know, sir
- No. - I'm looking for him, but...
- Almost there. - Where is he?
In the pit.
- Hurry! Hurry! - We've arrived.
- What is it? - Angelini was looking for you.
- Where is he? - In there.
Piero! I've been trying to talk to you for 10 days!
- I know. - But Piero...
- Sorry, but the race is about to start. - No, Piero, you can't race!
Look, what exactly do you want? I don't understand you.
You're always telling me off for not putting my neck on the line.
- And now... - That's not true, Piero!
No?
- Then you're doing this for me? - Of course.
- No, Piero, you don't have to... - Hold on.
Not for you, Lucia. Because of you.
- Which is a completely different thing. - I don't understand!
Then I'll explain it to you.
Up until 15 days ago, none of this was necessary.
We were sure to win. And with normal motorcycles.
Safe, tested motorcycles. But then...
Understand, Lucia?
You forced us to enter the race with a bike that wasn't ready.
And given the circumstances, I have to ride it.
- Now do you understand? - But it's a misunderstanding.
It's not what you think. I don't care about Carlo Benni.
I had another reason for doing it. Let me explain.
- Yes, I helped him, but... - Enough, Lucia. I'm not interested.
I'm not racing for sentimental reasons, I'm doing it because it needs to be done.
I'm racing for ZV, not for you.
Now let me go.
The start of the 500 cc race is almost upon us.
Carlo Benni!
I have to talk to you.
- Who, me? - Please, it's urgent.
Piero Angelini is racing because you're racing.
- Carlo, you have to withdraw. - What?
If Piero races he'll kill himself!
Please, Carlo, I'm begging you, withdraw!
Lucia, do you realise what you're saying?
How can you even ask me something like that?
I have every right to. Without me you wouldn't even be here.
What does she want?
Lucia, I accepted that money from you free from conditions.
Like from a stranger, that's what you said.
That's true, but now the situation has changed.
Now...
I could tell your wife everything.
I'm sure she'd like to know what we're talking about.
I agree. It's probably better that way.
Giovanna, come over here.
I'm sorry, Giovanna, but we have to tell you something.
Rossetti didn't lend me the money for the motorcycle.
I lied, Giovanna. Miss Parisi lent it to me.
- Carlo! - Yes, I know, but...
It's difficult to explain. You just have to believe me.
I only accepted the money because it was finished between us.
It's the truth, I swear
Remember the situation we were in? I had no other option.
Participating in this race means everything to us.
I simply couldn't turn down her help.
And I would've told you after the race.
Anyway, that's our business. What does she want?
I want him to withdraw.
I could demand it as my right, instead I'm asking it as a favour
Another man could die trying to beat Benni!
Benni mustn't race!
It's their profession, Miss.
In any case, it isn't negotiable.
You'll get every last cent of your money back, I guarantee it.
But Carlo is racing, and that's that!
Is it true, Carlo?
When I accepted your money, I didn't do it for me.
It's not up to me to decide.
It's up to her
Yes, Carlo has to race.
I've cried many times for him too.
What did you imagine? It's like that for me every time.
When you're really in love, you're afraid.
OK, let's get going. It's our turn now.
- It'll be all right, Carlo, won't it? - I hope so.
- It won't be easy, but I'll do my best. - I'm sure of it, Carlo, sure of it.
Grab her.
Careful! Be careful.
I'll bring her
Do you still believe in me?
Attention, all riders must take their place on the starting grid.
Take your position on the starting grid.
Attention, five minutes until the start of the race.
Turn off your motors.
Mechanics, please prepare to leave the track.
Ready for the starting signal.
Who's wearing the green helmet?
Calm, Carlo, remain calm.
- Good luck, Engineer - Watch the signals.
And good luck.
Ready. Ten...
Five, four, three...
two, one, go!
And they're off!
We now go over to our reporter at the Lesmo Curve.
They're still grouped together as they round the Lesmo Curve,
as of yet unable to get their engines up to full speed.
In first position, number 28.
But now breaking away from the group, number 4, Benni,
and number 14, Angelini.
They've both shot out from the bend. Back to the main stand.
Number 4, Benni on the Arrow, has already taken the lead.
A few metres behind him, number 14, Angelini on the ZV.
As predicted, it looks like the fight for the chequered flag
will be between these two champions.
We could be in fora heated and dramatic duel.
For now, Benni looks to be faster than his adversary,
but Angelini, on his return to racing,
will surely use all the skill and knowledge from his long career
There are still only a few fractions of a second between them,
and the positions don't look like changing.
Now, over to our trackside reporter at the porphyry bend.
Attention! First Aid to the porphyry bend!
Number 26 has crashed.
We'll update you on the rider's condition as soon as possible.
Over to the main stand.
Number 4, Benni, and number 14, Angelini, are still leading the race.
They're almost side by side.
Angelini's on the attack, at speeds of over 250 on straight.
And we have a new track average speed record: 186.9 KM per hour
Fantastic! The two leaders are alternating first position
with such frequency, it's becoming almost impossible to keep track.
Only a few metres separate them!
After a fantastic race,
in the last few laps Benni and Angelini have finished lapping the other racers.
Benni leads Angelini into the bend at an incredible speed.
Attention! First Aid to the porphyry bend!
Back to the main stand.
A motorcycle has entered the home straight.
It's Benni!
- No one can stop him now! - Dad!
My dear!
- Engineer! - Stop Sarti! Number 12, stop him!
- No, Engineer Angelini... - Hurry to the pit! I have to keep racing!
- Piero! Piero! - No, Lucia! Stop!
Piero!
- Piero! - No, Lucia!
My Piero!
Benni takes the chequered flag in fantastic style!
We have just witnessed the crowning of a great new champion!
And a new type of motorcycle, the work of a little-known constructor,
who, with this victory, has proved himself to be equal to the big names in racing.