RIVA DEL GARDA, Italy — Roberto Pellegrini, president of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi since 2007 and one of the leading figures behind the development of the city’s exhibition and congress industry, has passed away at the age of 76 after a prolonged illness.

Pellegrini led the organization for nearly two decades, overseeing a period of significant growth and consolidation and helping strengthen Riva del Garda’s reputation as an international destination for trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences and business events.

Leadership at Fierecongressi and Expo Riva

Pellegrini’s long tenure at the helm of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi coincided with an important period in the development of the city’s exhibition sector. Under his leadership, the organization strengthened its position as a major venue for trade fairs and congresses, expanding its connections with national and international markets.

His leadership was closely associated with the growth and consolidation of Expo Riva, which became an important part of Riva del Garda’s exhibition calendar. Pellegrini worked to strengthen the venue’s role as a platform not only for local and regional businesses, but also for international exhibitors, buyers and professional communities.

He was known for combining a strong connection to the local area with an international outlook. His long presidency provided continuity as Fierecongressi expanded its activities, developed new relationships and strengthened Riva del Garda’s profile within the European exhibition and congress industry.

Pellegrini also placed considerable importance on building long-term relationships with exhibitors, industry associations, institutions and business partners. His extensive network helped connect the local economy with wider business and professional communities, contributing to the broader development of the city’s events sector.