We have known this for some time, but in respect of Cressi and a strong athlete like Luigi Puretti, we wanted to wait for the officialisation of a historic agreement: Luigi Puretti joins Team Cressi Spearfishing. The agreement unites one of the most important companies in the world of spearfishing, and certainly the one that has won the most, with as many as 12 world titles, with an athlete who in recent years has shown extraordinary strength and versatility, culminating in his second place at the World Championship in Spain, behind only the over-favorite Casa athlete, Santiago Lopez Cid, who precisely gave the 12th World Championship to the 100% Italian company. We wanted to interview Luigi to tell you immediately, at the moment of the official announcement, his feelings, reasons for the choice, first impressions of the Cressi products and plans for 2025.

Carlo Forni: Hi Luigi. As Vice World Champion of spearfishing, you join a company that has won 12 world titles in this discipline. What does this transition to Team Cressi Spearfishing represent for you?
Luigi Puretti: Hi Carlo. The relationship with Cressi represents a real working partnership for me, which I hope will be long-lasting. I will be very committed, both at the competitive level to give the brand the right prominence in competitions, and in increasing the quality and quantity of content on my social channels. In addition, I would like to make a direct contribution to the further optimization of equipment and new products.
CF: You have already gotten to know some of the Cressi Spearfishing products, although you will now have time to test them thoroughly. What do you already know about the range, considering also that you tested the Victory for Apnea Passion? What were your impressions and which products are you most curious about?
LP: In fact, I have already had the opportunity to test the Cressi Victory, which left me with absolutely positive impressions. Cressi products are distinguished by excellent quality and, above all, uncompromising reliability. Each product is brought to market only after it has been perfected, guaranteeing the total absence of defects. I am looking forward to trying out the new masks, some of which I have already glimpsed, and the flashlight. In addition, I am particularly curious about some versions of the Victory in even longer sizes (130 – 140 ed.).

CF: What do you think could be your main contribution to the Cressi brand?
LP: I think my biggest contribution will be in the competitions sector, representing the brand as best I can, and in creating quality content for social. In addition, I would like to collaborate on equipment development and improvement, providing useful feedback and testing new products.
Carlo Forni: You will participate in the Italian Absolute Championships in Puglia, a competition with over 50 male athletes, as well as a growing number of female athletes, thanks to the excellent work of DT Tiziana Martinelli. What are your expectations, considering that you will be competing at home, but that some athletes will be even more “at home” than you? Also, there will be athletes who will be preparing for a long time to win the title, such as Giacomo De Mola, with whom you shared many battles and who was with you on the podium in Spain, albeit one step below.
Luigi Puretti: I am very happy that the Italian Championshipwill take place in Puglia, in Gallipoli, a location that will not disappoint the participants. Although I am from Salento, I have fished mostly in the Adriatic and only occasionally in the Ionian. This makes other athletes, such as Rocco Cuccaro, the real hosts. However, the race course will be suitable for everyone, and those who have a chance to prepare for a long time will be able to achieve excellent results.
CF: How do you rate the competition fields of the Italian Championship? What should enthusiasts expect in terms of preys?
LP: The Absolute’s competition fields will offer interesting prey such as white groupers, golden groupers, but prey such as, especially, croakers and snappers will also be important. Enthusiasts can expect interesting catches, especially considering the clear and warm waters in late June.
Carlo Forni: What does it mean for you to participate as a Team Cressi athlete? Alongside you will be very talented up-and-coming young people, such as Stefano Konjedic, now your teammate. In your opinion, does he represent the future of spearfishing?

Luigi Puretti: Participating as a Team Cressi Spearfishing athlete is a huge motivation for me. On the one hand, I feel the responsibility to do well; on the other hand, I am proud to represent such an important brand. Stefano Konjedic is a very promising young man with outstanding results despite little experience. I have not yet had a chance to fish with him, but I hope to do so soon. He is considered not only a very strong athlete, but also a humble and valuable person with tremendous room for improvement.
CF: What are your goals for 2025?
LP: In 2025 I will definitely participate in the Italian Championship and I hope to be called for the World Cup, which should take place in Brazil. Also, I would like to repeat the experience of the Ibiza competition, which I found very nice and fun, and compete in some regional trophies.