Like many, like everyone who has ever passed through the Mugello circuit. Some came in tents, some in camper vans, some with friends, some with family. Among them were also young motorcycle enthusiasts who today return to these hills as MotoGP protagonists fighting for the world championship. Because no Italian rider can remain indifferent to the energy and charm of this circuit, even now that it has become part of their daily routine.

"It was 2004 when Valentino won with the wooden helmet. It was a fantastic battle; the track here is always spectacular, the best weekend of the season," begins Bagnaia, who showed up holding a home-delivery pizza box: "It’s a way to highlight the conviviality of this place. Tents, campers, barbecues, and pizza are the watchwords here, and for me, it’s the most beautiful moment to share with the ones you love," says the Ducati rider, who is looking to bounce back and is once again paired with Marc Marquez, cleared fit for Friday's free practice following his injury.

Fabio Di Giannantonio arrives with the wind in his sails, having fought against Bezzecchi and Martin themselves during the 2018 Moto3 race. Today, he finds them as rivals in the world championship standings: "Walking along the track, it feels like a magical place every time; the way it changes color with the fans is pure Italian motorsport," smiles the VR46 rider, who has clear ideas on where to try and make a difference: "Casanova-Savelli, Arrabbiata 1 and 2," he says, stroking his brand-new, flaming black and gold helmet: "I just bought my dream car, and the idea came from those colors—a way to celebrate achieving that goal," 'Diggia' confesses.

Standing in his way is the world championship leader, Bezzecchi, with his usual smile and the pressure of a leader to manage: "Every rider's dream is to win their home GP, but it's only Thursday..." announces 'Bez', who adds to the album of personal memories experienced at Mugello: "I used to come here as a child with my family. Over the years, I was lucky enough to see many of Valentino's victories or the battle between Simoncelli and Pasini, which is definitely among my finest memories," notes the Aprilia rider before turning the engines on.

Tomorrow brings free practice, Saturday the sprint race and qualifying, and Sunday the race: the hottest week of the World Championship is about to begin.