“Be Proud of Who You Are”, Luca Venturelli’s Message for Poeple with Autism
As Autism Awareness Month continues to be observed around the world, we are celebrating another iconic athlete whose journey highlights resilience, determination, and the true impact of inclusion in sport. Italian runner Luca Venturelli is an athlete with autism whose path from early challenges to international competition continues to inspire both the autism community and the wider sporting world.
Born in Rimini, Venturelli’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and purpose.
“My biggest supporters are definitely all the families who follow me because they have a story connected to autism, and without a doubt my family,” he shares.
Their support has been central to his journey, alongside the influence of coaches, teammates, and a defining encounter with a Paralympic athlete who taught him “to never be ashamed of who I am.”
From beginning sport as a way to build social connection after therapy, to competing on the global stage, Venturelli’s journey reflects more than athletic success. It demonstrates the potential of athletes on the autism spectrum when they are supported, understood, and allowed to thrive.
Living with autism has shaped Venturelli’s life in complex ways.
“Autism has influenced me both positively and negatively. It has helped me break down barriers… and understand the value of every small achievement. It has left me with rigidities… but I am happy to be accompanied by this ‘invisible companion’ of mine.”
That mindset – acceptance paired with perseverance – has become central to his identity, both on and off the track.
Venturelli’s introduction to sport began at age 12, following Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy. What started as a tool for social development quickly evolved into something deeper.
Luca Venturilli proudly singing Italy’s national anthem during medal ceremony at Brisbane 2025. Photo Credit: SIA
“At first, sport was like therapy for me. Over time..it became more and more a passion,” he says.
Today, athletics is more than competition; it is a purpose.
“It’s a way for me to feel like I’m competing with everyone else. Not so much to win titles, but to show how much I want to improve – and to show many kids who have had a story like mine that if they really want it, they can do it,” he explains.
For Venturelli, running represents discipline, fairness, and connection. “I love the discipline, the rules, and the fairness among athletes. Even though it is an individual sport, it really helps to find new relationships.”
Yet the path has not been without obstacles. From sensory challenges to navigating communication and teamwork, his journey reflects the often unseen realities of autism.
“The most difficult aspect has been my rigidity, both physical and emotional. It is a characteristic of autistic people, and it is difficult to find a balance. Another difficulty has definitely been finding the right approach to learn how to relate to my teammates or to other runners. Another has been understanding instructions from a coach or a technical staff member, trying to fully understand how to manage myself in training or in a race. On a sensory level, I still have difficulties because of the starting noise made with the starting pistol.”
He also speaks about discrimination during his school years.
“I have experienced some discrimination, especially during adolescence at school, when I was left out by others or not invited to go out after school or to take part in parties. I was made fun of because very often I needed support to understand certain things I did not grasp right away, and many considered me too privileged for that, making me feel like the black sheep of the group. I asked myself why I was not chosen, and I always tried to mask some of my behaviours or to seem like everyone else.”
Raising Awareness for an Invisible Condition
Venturelli emphasises that autism’s invisibility makes understanding more difficult–but also more necessary.
“Many people still struggle to look at the inner side instead of just the outer one, and to see beyond their own eyes. I believe it is very difficult, also because people with autism are all very different from one another.
“Nowadays, awareness-raising about autism is helping, but first and foremost, people need a strong willingness to observe and listen. Our condition is invisible to the eye, and to understand how we function, you definitely need to spend time with us, because it is in the small things, which we often struggle with a lot, that you can truly realise the real difficulties.”
His achievements – including international medals and records – were never expected, even by him.
“At the beginning, I would never have thought I would get this far, But I have always worked with total commitment to challenge myself.”
Pride, Representation, and Inclusion
Competing on the global stage has brought moments of profound pride.
“Winning a medal for your country is… an indescribable emotion. You feel pushed by the strength of so many people who believe in you.”
At events like the Global Games, Venturelli has competed alongside other athletes with autism, describing the experience as “a great source of pride” and “a true honour.”
Through organisations like Virtus, he sees real change taking shape.
“Virtus competitions serve to support inclusion for athletes with intellectual disabilities and autism. They are a great opportunity to proudly showcase our abilities at an international level. This makes us feel seen and valued. Plus, it is wonderful to meet stories similar to mine around the world and to feel so united and like brothers.”
Luca competes in II3 category for athletes with autism and he currently holds the world record in II3 800 m. He also won gold in 1500m and 5000m at the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships.
A Message That Goes Beyond Sport
At the heart of Venturelli’s journey is a mission far greater than medals.
“My ultimate goal is to tell my story and to show that even though life can put you through difficulties, you must always find the strength to keep going. I want to see many other young people on the autism spectrum practising sport at a high level, feeling welcomed in an environment that is open to them.”
This Autism Awareness Month, his message resonates with urgency and hope:
“Be proud of who you are, do not hide because you are afraid of being different – you are not. You, too, have a power, and you can make it grow. Never be ashamed of your traits… always aim higher because the world needs all kinds of minds.”
As Virtus celebrates its 40th anniversary, we celebrate Luca Venturelli’s resilience and athleticism. Through his achievements and advocacy, he continues to raise awareness for autism and promote inclusion in sport and society.
