Formula One star Antonio Giovinazzi’s favourite things

The Alfa Romeo racer pulls over to spill the beans on his must-haves
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Abha Shah @brimfulofashah29 January 2021
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Antonio Giovinazzi isn’t used to the slow life. The F1 driver is usually found zooming around Grand Prix tracks for Alfa Romeo Racing under the Italian flag, making his name in the world of high-octane motorsports, but the global pandemic has temporarily put the brakes on that.  

Still, he’s been busy. The rising star, who hails from Puglia (the ‘heel’ of Italy), has just been named the new global ambassador of Italian label Paul&Shark.

We caught up with the 27-year-old ahead of the new season to discover how he relaxes when he’s not tearing it up in the fast lane.  

What does 2021 hold for you?  

It will be another difficult season due to the Covid situation especially in the first part of the year. I hope it will get better from the middle of the season onwards. I really want to see the spectators and fans on the stands again, especially at the Monza Race weekend (the Italian Grand Prix is on September 10-12 this year). 

What are your travel must-haves?

I like to be comfortable so the quality of the fabric is very important: I love Paul&Shark organic cotton track suits and their travel wool cargo pants which combine comfort and style and are just perfect for travel. I wear sneakers and I always have my headphones with me so that I can catch up on movies or chill out listening to music.

What do you wear when you're not training?

Once I step off the track, I like to dress casually; things like sweatshirts and comfortable trousers. Paul&Shark represents my personality well and compliments my Italian style.  

What wardrobe staples should every man own?

Oh that’s an interesting one! For sure in my wardrobe there are always three important items: sweatshirts of all colours and styles, a navy blazer for formal events and many white sneakers. I love them!

Paul&Shark global ambassador Antonio Giovinazzi

What grooming product does every man need?

Every man needs great hair products, in my opinion. You’ll always find a really good shampoo and conditioner in my washbag. I like to take care of my hair!

What tech transformed your life?

Probably my headphones.

What are your favourite driving accessories?

My racing helmet means a lot to me. I’m very protective of it and I love to design the new livery every year, together with designer Aldo Drudi. It’s part of me.

What do you love about Italian fashion?

I love everything about Italian fashion. I’m proud of my country and have the tricolore (the Italian flag) on my helmet. Italian fashion is world-famous, a mix between elegance, comfort, quality and style. Also thanks to my job and the travel that goes with it, I can see for myself how tall Italy stands in the fashion industry. 

Paul&Shark is one of those labels. It’s a family company, and my family is my life. I love their logo too; a shark. Fierce, fascinating, fast. But resilient, and incredibly elegant too.  

Which Paul&Shark piece is your 'perfect fit’?

I love the new Spring/Summer collection! They did an amazing job. My “perfect fit” item is the cargo pants. I’m always in them! I have pairs in grey, black and and navy. They’re great for travelling, playing golf or just everyday wear. 

I often pair them with the Paul&Shark 4in1 jacket; it's reversible so you can change your look as you like.  It's made from shaved wool and has a detachable waterproof liner that can be worn by itself too. Four different outfits in one, it's perfect to quickly switch from outdoor to indoor.  

Paul & Shark are big on sustainability, is this a subject that touches you particularly?  

Absolutely, we cannot ignore the environmental problems we are facing nowadays. We all have a duty to do something, at all levels.  

Paul&Shark’s commitment to sustainability is impressive, especially the "SAVE THE SEA" initiative, which is so dear to the brand's DNA. From creating collections using recycled polyester filaments from abandoned plastic bottles, and regenerated nylon from fishnets littering the oceans, to partnering with The Shark Trust in Plymouth to protect these beautiful marine creatures.

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What’s your go-to 'guilty pleasure' food?

Even though I haven’t lived in Italy since 2017, Italian food is the best! My favourite dish is the Orecchiette con le cime di rapa. It’s a fresh pasta with a kind of broccoli from Puglia, where I was born and raised.

Lastly, your desert island must-haves?

That’s easy: food, still water and my girlfriend!

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