World champions at last! Andrea Chiapello, Alessio Cocciolo, Davide Laforè, Diego Rizzi, head coach Riccardo Capaccioni, and head of delegation Vincenzo Santucci are moved when the notes of the Italian anthem resound to sanction the Azzurri's triumph in the 51st World Bocce Championship in Dijon, France.

A historic triumph, chased for 45 years through constant French dominance, with Italian dreams previously broken six times in the semifinals. Overwhelming all obstacles with eloquent superiority (117 points scored against 43 conceded), it was Madagascar's final attempt to stand between Italy and the gold. A tough opponent, a genuine surprise of the world championship, but the Italians never feared they might lose the final.