The tradition of diving into the Tiber River from Ponte Cavour in Rome on New Year’s Day is one of the most iconic and enduring celebrations in the city. This ritual is centered around the figure of "Mr. OK," a title given to a courageous individual who leads the jump into the cold waters to mark the beginning of the year.

While this tradition has seen various individuals take on the role, the transition from the old "Mr. OK" to the new has captured the essence of both continuity and change in the city's culture. The original "Mr. OK," Maurizio Palmulli, became a legendary figure in Rome for his role in establishing this tradition.

Palmulli, a local figure with deep ties to the community, was the first to take the daring plunge in the late 1940s, at a time when such a feat symbolized both personal bravery and a collective spirit of resilience. Over the decades, Palmulli’s dive into the Tiber became more than just a physical act; it evolved into a powerful cultural symbol for Rome, embodying the city’s enduring optimism and vitality as it embraced the New Year.

Palmulli, known for his adventurous spirit and love for the city, was not just a "Mr. OK" because of his daring dive. He became an embodiment of the Roman identity, a symbol of fearless living and a reminder of the city’s capacity for renewal. The dive was seen as a way to leave the past behind and dive headfirst into the unknown future. Palmulli’s participation in the tradition, year after year, turned him into an icon in Rome, with crowds gathering by the Tiber to cheer on this figure of legend. His role was not only important because of the dive itself but because he represented a bridge between the old and the new, a figure that the people of Rome could relate to and admire.

However, as with all traditions, time marches on, and in 2025, Maurizio Palmulli stepped down from his role as "Mr. OK." This marked the end of an era for the Tiber River plunge, as Palmulli passed the torch to Marco Fois, the new "Mr. OK." Fois, who is known for his youthful energy and strong ties to the local community, was the natural successor to Palmulli. His appointment represented a new chapter in the tradition — one that still honors the courage and spirit of the past while embracing the future.

Fois’ first dive as "Mr. OK" was a highly anticipated event, and his plunge into the Tiber was met with enthusiastic applause. Despite some initial hesitation about the risks of the dive, Fois took the leap, symbolizing not just the physical act of jumping into the river but the continued strength of the city’s traditions. Fois' dive was significant for many reasons, not only because of his youth and dynamic personality but also because it showed that the spirit of "Mr. OK" was not confined to any one generation. While Palmulli had become a beloved symbol of Roman tradition, Fois was able to bring a fresh sense of enthusiasm and relevance to the role.

The passing of the "Mr. OK" title from Palmulli to Fois was an emotional moment for many Romans, who had grown up with Palmulli as the face of the Tiber dive. Yet, it was also a moment of continuity, as Fois embodies the same qualities that made Palmulli such a beloved figure. The dive continues to symbolize courage, community, and renewal, regardless of who takes the plunge. For the people of Rome, this yearly ritual remains a constant — a way to mark the turning of the year with hope and resilience.

One of the key aspects of the "Mr. OK" tradition is its deep connection to the youth of Rome. The role of "Mr. OK" has always been a source of inspiration for younger generations, who see the dive as an act of fearlessness and a symbol of their city’s vitality. Fois, with his strong ties to the local community and youthful spirit, resonates with these young Romans, ensuring that the tradition remains relevant and continues to inspire.

In conclusion, the tradition of the Tiber River dive, led by "Mr. OK," remains a powerful symbol of Rome’s resilience and joy. The transition from Maurizio Palmulli to Marco Fois marks the evolution of the tradition, but the underlying message remains the same: a celebration of life, courage, and the unbreakable spirit of Rome. Whether old or new, the figure of "Mr. OK" will continue to serve as a symbol of the city’s enduring optimism, inspiring generations to come.