Rome, Agencia IP.- Italian driver Filippo Marchino, who is competing in the ERC Rally di Roma Capitale 2026 with a vehicle decorated with motifs inspired by Paraguay, expressed his excitement and commitment to representing the country’s National Brand in one of the most important events in European motorsport.
In an exclusive interview with Agencia IP, Marchino highlighted that his participation in a Citroën C3 Rally2 featuring a Paraguayan-inspired design initially started as a casual idea that later became a meaningful professional and personal opportunity. «When I was actually asked to do this, it was super cool; it has been a very big honor,» he said.
He explained that his first real contact with Paraguay came after meeting the country’s President in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which marked the beginning of his interest in the country. «I met the president (Santiago Peña) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, last year. He is a wonderful person, full of charisma, very loving, and incredibly nice to be around,» Marchino said. He added that later meetings with Paraguayan government representatives further strengthened his connection. «From there, we spent some time talking about Paraguay, and that was the first time I really learned about the country.»
The driver emphasized that the vehicle and his racing suit reflect iconic elements of Paraguay’s identity, such as the pink tajy flower, the national colors, and the country’s presence in the vehicle design. «I am very, very proud of this livery. The flower motif is something I absolutely love, and we’ve already received a lot of compliments,» he stated.
Marchino acknowledged that his knowledge of Paraguay was limited before this collaboration, but said the experience allowed him to learn more about the country and its culture. «I did not know a ton about Paraguay. But I have seen pictures, videos, I have learned more about its history and infrastructure, and it looks like an incredible place,» he explained.
Regarding the car design, Marchino particularly highlighted the symbolism of the tajy flower. «The thing that I love the most, being the father of two little girls, is the pink flowers. I absolutely adore them,» he said.
The driver also emphasized the responsibility of carrying a national identity on his car during the competition. «It is such an honor to represent the country of Paraguay. There are not many chances in a lifetime to represent a country, and I have been incredibly fortunate,» he stated.
He added that this experience brings additional motivation for the race. «Absolutely. It is such an honor to represent Paraguay. We definitely feel much more motivated than we otherwise would,» he said.
Marchino also expressed interest in competing in the WRC Rally del Paraguay in the future, with one condition. «The only condition I put on there is that I would like to be there a week before and a week after, so I can actually enjoy Paraguay,» he said.
Finally, he sent a message to Paraguayan rally fans who will follow his performance in Rome. «Thank you. We have already received many messages. We really love the warmth and the support you are showing us. We hope we make you proud,» he concluded.
Marchino’s participation in Rally di Roma Capitale represents a strategic international projection of Paraguay’s Nation Brand, showcasing the country through motorsport on one of Europe’s most visible rally platforms.