Agnelli

Agnelli is an Italian surname derived from agnello, meaning lamb. It is best known as the name of the Agnelli family, a prominent Italian industrial dynasty.

The family rose to prominence in the late 19th century with Fiat’s founding. Giovanni Agnelli (1866–1945) established Fiat in 1899 in Turin, and under his leadership the company grew into a major automobile manufacturer and a cornerstone of Italy’s industry. The family maintained control through the 20th century, expanding into other sectors and building a diversified business empire.

The Agnelli holdings are organized through Exor N.V., a Netherlands-registered investment company controlled by the family. Exor has held significant stakes in automotive groups and in sports and media, including Ferrari and Juventus Football Club, and it has ties to the Stellantis group formed from the Fiat Chrysler and PSA merger.

Notable members include Edoardo Agnelli (1892–1935), Gianni Agnelli (1921–2003), and Umberto Agnelli (1934–2004). Andrea Agnelli (born 1975) has led Juventus F.C. since 2010, and John Elkann (born 1966), Gianni’s grandson, has served as executive chairman of Exor and played a leading role in the family’s corporate affairs. Lapo Elkann (born 1977) is a public figure in fashion and design.