Italian gymnast Giorgia Villa, who recently clinched a silver medal at the Olympics, is not just making headlines for her athletic prowess but also for her unique sponsorship by Parmigiano Reggiano.
Villa's sponsorship by the renowned cheese brand began in 2021, adding a flavorful twist to her already impressive career. Villa, who also secured a bronze at the 2019 World Championships and gold with her team at the 2022 Mediterranean Games and European Championships, has flourished over the past three years, cementing her status as one of the world’s top gymnasts.
"Adding a fresh face to the esteemed Parmigiano Reggiano team, young gymnast Giorgia Villa stands out as a shining star in international gymnastics," announced Impresa e Sport, the Italian marketing agency, in 2021.
Villa, who started gymnastics at the tender age of three, credits her early start and her mother’s encouragement for her love of the sport. "I immediately fell in love with gymnastics," Villa recalled. "I couldn’t wait to jump and run, feeling free and happy."
Training at the Italian Gymnastics Federation's International Academy of Brescia since she was 11, Villa, now 21, reflects on her journey with pride. "Every day has been a personal achievement," she said in a 2022 interview. "Despite the sacrifices, the satisfaction I get from gymnastics drives me to face future challenges."
Villa's passion for gymnastics is matched by her enthusiasm for her unique sponsor. She is often seen on social media with the massive wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, produced exclusively in select provinces of Italy. "I’ve always loved this fantastic product, a symbol of Italian excellence," Villa expressed at the start of her sponsorship.
Despite the cheese-themed spotlight, Villa remains focused on her primary goal: the Olympics. "The biggest objective is the Olympics," she affirmed. "This [medal] is a reward for the injuries and hard moments we've endured."
Villa's journey from a high-energy child to an Olympic medalist and a cheese ambassador highlights her dedication and the unique blend of passion and authenticity she brings to her sport and her sponsors.
