Written by Ramiza Donlic, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri
Women have played an influential role throughout the history of motor racing. Many have taken to the wheels of motorsport machines, while numerous figures have worked tirelessly on the sidelines in various roles, shaping the motor racing world to the present day. Woman Spotlight Wednesday aims to take a look at the tales of these superwomen, who have surpassed various hurdles to reach where they are today.
Italian television presenter Federica Masolin has captivated audiences with her charm, wit, and undeniable talent. Born on May 7, 1985, in Milan, Italy, Masolin has carved a niche for herself in the world of entertainment, becoming a household name through her engaging presence on screen.
She quickly developed love and interest in sports in her childhood, in a surprising way, stemming from jealousy with her younger sister, whom she often fought. To prevent the siblings from fighting, Masolin’s father took her to watch sports events such as motor races and tennis matches in her youth. She has a degree in modern literature from the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.
With a career spanning over a decade, Masolin has hosted various shows, events, and interviews, showcasing her versatility and magnetic personality.
She initially gained recognition as a sports presenter for men and women's volleyball, but her talents soon led her to explore diverse sport categories of television, like Serie A and Serie B football leagues, as well as the 2011 Copa América, the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.
Masolin's journey in the media industry began with an internship with the editorial staff at sports television channel Sky Sport, when she was 20, and she quickly made a name for herself.
Masolin’s ability to connect with the audience and deliver information with a genuine touch set her apart. She received full support from her parents, and her experience at Sky Sport paved the way for a sideline volleyball correspondent for both the Serie A Men's League and the Serie A1 Women´s League.
In 2009, Masolin began to cover the Serie A and Serie B football leagues as a sideline reporter for the same channel. She was frequently sent to cover matches involving the Genoa C.F.C and U.C. Sampdoria clubs, and subsequently presented the broadcaster´s coverage of the 2011 Copa América.
Masolin also presented the Euro Calcio Show, dedicated to the broadcasting of foreign football leagues in Italy. In 2012, she was sent to London by Sky Sport to cover the 2012 Summer Olympics.
The following year, she began fronting the Sky Sport24 programme at the behest of certain editors. In 2014, she was also sent to cover the Winter Olympics in Sochi.
She was made presenter of Sky Sport's three-day coverage of Formula One motor racing from the 2014 season, after a meeting with the Sky director in Sochi that February — she also conducted the pre-season presentations of the Ferrari racing team.
Masolin’s preparations for her new role as F1 presenter included reviewing the sport´s regulations, and connecting with colleagues, working in the industry.
She made her first appearance as presenter at the 2014 Australian Grand Prix, and has built a healthy working and personal relationship with fellow experts Davide Valsecchi, and 1997 world drivers´championship winner Jacques Villeneuve.
One of Masolin's notable achievements is her role as a presenter on popular pre- and post-race show `Paddock'' as well as the pre-race social column of Sky Sport ́s Formula One coverage.
Known for her passion for cars and racing, she brings an infectious energy to the show, making it a hit among enthusiasts. Masolin once expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "Being a part of 'Paddock' is a dream come true. I get to combine my love for presenting with my passion for automobiles."
In 2017 she was named TV Reporter of the Year, over fellow broadcaster Giorgia Rossi, garnering 52.4 percent of the total votes.
Beyond her television career, Masolin is an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, and has taken part in many charity events for the foundation. She has been part of the Run That Track community, raising money for foundations helping children in Bangladesh, Ghana and South Africa.
Masolin is also active on social media, connecting with fans and sharing glimpses of her work life — but less of her private life. Her authenticity and genuine engagement have contributed to a loyal fan base who appreciate her both on and off the screen.
On race days, she rises early, and arrives at the track four hours before the television broadcast begins, as a preparation for 30 hours of broadcast over the course of a meeting. Masolin says she feels more relaxed in Formula One than doing football, and found there to be less prejudice in the former.
In an era of media personalities playing a significant role in shaping public opinion, Masolin stands out as a positive and influential figure. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her warm and relatable persona, has solidified her status as a beloved presenter in Italy.
As Federica Masolin continues to make her mark in the world of entertainment, audiences can undoubtedly expect more captivating moments and memorable experiences from this talented Italian presenter. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring individuals looking to make their mark in the dynamic and competitive realm of television.