Auto racing is a popular sport in Italy, with some of the world’s best drivers hailing from the country.
From Formula One stars like four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel to rally drivers like nine-time world champion Sebastien Loeb, Italy has been a powerhouse in the sport for decades.
We’ll take a look at some of the top Italian auto racing drivers of all time and their accomplishments.
1. Riccardo Patrese
Riccardo Gabriele Patrese is a former Italian racing driver who was active in Formula One from 1977 to 1993. He is known for being a trailblazer in the sport, as he was the first driver to reach 200 and 250 Grand Prix starts in Formula One.
His 200th appearance was at the 1990 British Grand Prix and his 250th race was at the 1993 German Grand Prix. Patrese was praised for his commitment and endurance, as he was able to stay in the sport for such a long period of time.
He was also known for his remarkable consistency, as he was able to finish in the top ten of the championship standings nine times during his career.
He was able to achieve a total of six podium finishes and one win during his Formula One career. Apart from his success in Formula One, Patrese also raced in other Formula One feeder series such as Formula 3000 and Formula 2.
He also competed in the World Sportscar Championship and other endurance racing series.
He won the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1992 and the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1994, achieving success in other motorsport disciplines as well. Patrese is now retired from racing but is still involved in the sport as a commentator and ambassador.
He is also dedicated to several charity organizations and is an advocate for road safety. His career in Formula One will remain an inspiration for many racing drivers to come.
2. Lorenzo Bandini
Lorenzo Bandini was an Italian motor racing driver who made his mark on the racing world. He began his career racing in Italy, competing in both sports car and Formula One races.
His talent and skill soon caught the attention of Scuderia Centro Sud, who signed him to their team in 1961. With them, he competed in various Formula One races, and in 1964, he was signed by Ferrari. During his time with Ferrari, Bandini achieved many successes.
He placed third at the 1964 French Grand Prix, and he won the 1965 Monaco Grand Prix. His success with Ferrari earned him the nickname “Bandini Bird”. He continued to race with Ferrari until his death in 1967. Bandini’s career as a racing driver was cut tragically short.
While competing at the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix, Bandini’s car crashed and caught fire. He was rushed to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries two days later.
The Italian motor racing world mourned the loss of one of its greatest drivers. Today, Bandini is remembered for his skill and courage as a motor racing driver. His legacy is still celebrated by fans of motor racing across the globe.
He will forever be remembered as one of Italy’s most talented drivers.
3. Alex Zanardi
Alessandro “Alex” Zanardi is an Italian racing driver and paracyclist who has achieved success in a variety of motorsports. He first gained fame in the CART championship, a North American open wheel racing series, where he won in 1997 and 1998, and earned 15 wins in total.
He also had a successful career in Formula One, the world’s premier motorsport series, from 1991 to 1994 and again in 1999. His best result in F1 was a sixth-place finish at the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix.
Zanardi has since gone on to become a successful para cyclist winning two gold medals at the 2012 Paralympic Games. His inspirational story of success in the face of adversity has made him a beloved figure in the motorsport world.
4. Mauro Baldi
Mauro Giuseppe Baldi is a renowned former Formula One and endurance driver from Italy. He had a successful career in the motorsport industry, racing for some of the most prestigious teams such as Arrows, Alfa Romeo and Spirit.
Baldi achieved a great milestone in his racing career, being one of the nine drivers who completed the illustrious Triple Crown in endurance racing.
This is an informal title given to those who have won the three most prestigious endurance races in motorsport, namely the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Daytona.
The Triple Crown is highly coveted by endurance drivers, and Baldi’s achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication.
5. Pietro Bordino
Pietro Bordino was an Italian racecar driver who hailed from Turin. He was a prominent figure in Italian motorsport during the 1920s and is remembered for his achievements in the sport.
In 1922, Bordino won the Italian Grand Prix, a prestigious event that has been part of the Formula One World Championship since 1950. He also entered the 1925 Indianapolis 500, an American race that is part of the NASCAR Cup Series, and finished 10th.
This result was impressive for the time, considering that it was only the second year that the race was held. It also cemented Bordino’s position as one of the top drivers of that era.
His success in the sport earned him the respect of his peers and motorsport fans alike, and he is still remembered today as one of the great racers of the past.
6. Luigi Chinetti
Luigi Chinetti was an Italian-born racecar driver, who emigrated to the United States during World War II. Chinetti had a remarkable career in motorsports, having competed in some of the most famous races in the world.
He was particularly successful in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, having competed in 12 consecutive races and taking three outright wins there. In addition to his successes at Le Mans, Chinetti also won two more races at the Spa 24 Hours race.
His skill and talent behind the wheel made him a stand out among his peers and earned him a place in motorsport history. He is remembered as a pioneering figure who helped shape the sport in the United States.
7. Silvio Alberti
Silvio Alberti is an Italian race car driver with a successful career in motorsport. In 2000, he competed in Italian Formula Three, the top-level single-seater racing championship in Italy, for part of the season.
The following year, he went on to compete in the B-Class, a lower-level championship of Formula Three, for a full season. In 2002, he continued his involvement in the B-Class, driving part of the season for the Alberti team, which he founded himself.
Throughout his career, Silvio Alberti has established himself as one of the best Italian race car drivers, and his involvement in motorsport has been greatly appreciated.
8. Alberto Ascari
Alberto Ascari was an Italian racing driver who left an indelible mark on the world of motorsport. He was a two-time Formula One World Champion and was renowned for his multi-talented skills as a driver.
Prior to competing in Formula One, Ascari was a successful motorcycle racer and made the switch to cars in the late 1940s. He then went on to win consecutive world titles in 1952 and 1953 for Scuderia Ferrari.
His success on the track saw him become a household name in Italy and throughout the motorsport world. Ascari was also renowned for his bravery and willingness to take risks on the track, which contributed to his success in Formula One.
His dedication to the sport also saw him become one of the first drivers to test new cars and tires for Scuderia Ferrari. His legacy lives on today and he is remembered as one of the greatest Italian Formula One drivers of all time.
9. Michele Alboreto
Michele Alboreto was an Italian racing driver who achieved great success during his career. In 1985, he was the runner-up to Alain Prost in the Formula One World Championship, narrowly missing out on the title.
He later achieved success in endurance sports car racing, winning the 1997 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 2001 12 Hours of Sebring races.
His success in endurance racing was noted for being particularly remarkable, as he was able to compete and triumph over younger drivers in the field. Alboreto has gone down in history as one of the most successful Italian racing drivers of all time.
He was known for his skill and precision on the track, as well as his affable personality off it. His legacy continues to live on as an inspiration to future generations of racing drivers.
10. Giuseppe Farina
Emilio Giuseppe Farina, better known by his nickname Nino Farina, was an Italian race car driver who achieved great success in the world of motorsport. He was born in Turin, Italy in 1906 and raced in the Grand Prix Championship from 1937 to 1950.
During this time, Farina won the Italian Championship in 1937, 1938, and 1939, becoming one of the most successful Italian race car drivers of the era. In 1950, he became the first official Formula One World Champion, a title that he held until 1953 when he retired from racing.
Farina was a dedicated and passionate driver who believed in the idea of taking risks and pushing himself to the limit, something that helped him to achieve such great success in the world of motorsport.
11. Giancarlo Fisichella
Giancarlo Fisichella is an Italian professional racing driver who is known by many names, such as Fisico, Giano and Fisi.
Throughout his career, he has driven for a number of different teams in Formula One, including Minardi, Jordan, Benetton, Sauber, Renault, Force India and Ferrari.
He is also the captain of the official Nazionale Piloti association football team, a testament to his skill and popularity. Fisichella has achieved a great deal of success in his career, winning three Formula One races, five pole positions and recording over a dozen podium finishes.
He is considered one of the most successful Italian drivers in the history of the sport and has made a name for himself both on and off the track.
In addition to his racing career, he is also involved in charity work and was appointed to the Italian National Olympic Committee in 2012. Giancarlo Fisichella is a true Italian racing great, and his contributions to Formula One will not soon be forgotten.
He is a true role model for aspiring drivers, and his commitment to his sport and his charity work have earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.
12. Elio de Angelis
Elio de Angelis was an Italian racing driver who had a successful career in Formula One between 1979 and 1986. During this time, he drove for the Shadow, Lotus, and Brabham teams. He was a highly talented driver who achieved some noteworthy successes during his career.
Unfortunately, his career came to a tragic end in 1986 when he was killed in a testing accident at the Paul Ricard circuit near the commune of Le Castellet, France.
The accident occurred while he was testing the Brabham BT55, and it was a devastating blow to the entire Formula One community. Elio de Angelis was a beloved figure in the sport, and his death was mourned by fans all over the world.
He will be remembered as a talented and courageous driver who left an indelible mark on the sport.
13. Piero Taruffi
Piero Taruffi was one of the most renowned Italian racing drivers of the twentieth century. He had a long and illustrious career in motorsports, spanning from 1950 to 1956.
During his time in Formula One, he achieved great success, notably winning the 1952 Swiss Grand Prix and finishing third in the 1952 World Drivers’ Championship.
After his time in Formula One, he went on to win the 1957 Mille Miglia, a cross-country sports car race which was the final running of the event. Taruffi had an impressive career, having raced in many different series and events.
He competed in the Italian Grand Prix in 1950, where he finished in fourth place. He also raced in the 1952 Monaco Grand Prix, the 1953 Italian Grand Prix, and the 1955 French Grand Prix. He also raced in hill climbs, rallies, and endurance races.
His best performance in an endurance race was his win in the 1957 Mille Miglia, where he won in a Ferrari 315S. Taruffi was a skilled racer, and he was admired for his ability to adapt to new vehicles and technologies.
He was also known for his courage and daring, as he was willing to take risks in order to win. His achievements were highly praised in the Italian media, and he was considered one of the greatest Italian racing drivers of his time.
Taruffi’s career is remembered fondly, and his legacy lives on in the motorsports community.
14. Luigi Musso
Luigi Musso was an Italian racing driver who achieved great success during the 1950s. In 1955, he joined the Ferrari team and quickly became a major driving force in the team.
Musso was in direct competition with fellow Ferrari drivers Mike Hawthorn and Peter Collins, and this rivalry pushed all of them to become better drivers.
The rivalry also led to increased risk-taking from the drivers, as they consistently sought to outdo each other on the track. This elevated the performance of the Ferrari team, as they quickly became one of the top teams in the world.
Unfortunately, Musso’s life was cut short at the 1958 French Grand Prix when he crashed his car and was killed. Despite his tragic death, Musso will always be remembered as one of the greatest racing drivers of his era.
15. Ludovico Scarfiotti
Ludovico Scarfiotti was an accomplished Formula One and sports car driver from Italy. He was a highly successful racer who achieved a number of victories in his career.
Prior to entering the world of Formula One racing, Scarfiotti won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1963 while racing for Ferrari.
This victory put him in the spotlight and he went on to compete in 12 World Championship Formula One grands prix, as well as various non-championship races.
Scarfiotti’s impressive racing career was marked by a number of wins and impressive performances, making him a highly respected driver.
His success in Formula One and sports car racing was a testament to his skill and determination, as he proved to be a formidable competitor on the racing circuit.
16. Luigi Fagioli
Luigi Cristiano Fagioli was an Italian motor racing driver who earned the nickname of “the Abruzzi robber”. He was an incredibly successful racer who had a long and prosperous career.
He achieved a remarkable feat when he won a race at the age of 53, making him the oldest Formula One driver to ever win a race. This is a remarkable accomplishment and speaks to Fagioli’s skill and experience.
His record is a testament to his enduring ability and dedication to the sport, and his legacy in the motor racing world is immense. Fagioli has been an inspiration to many, and his achievements will always be remembered.
17. Jarno Trulli
Jarno Trulli is an Italian racing driver who had a long career in Formula One. He first joined the premier racing series in 1997, when he was signed up to drive for Minardi. Trulli then moved to Prost in 1999, where he stayed for two years before joining Jordan in 2001.
He then moved again, this time to Renault, and spent four seasons with them. In 2005, Trulli shifted to Toyota, where he drove for five seasons.
In 2010, he signed with Lotus Racing, and then moved to Team Lotus for the 2011 season, before retiring from Formula One at the end of that year.
During his time in the series, Trulli achieved a number of impressive results, including a remarkable pole position at the 2004 Monaco Grand Prix.
His career in Formula One was a testament to his skill and determination as a driver, and he will always be remembered as one of the most successful Italian racers of his generation.
18. Alessandro Nannini
Alessandro “Sandro” Nannini is a former racing driver from Italy. He is the younger brother of the popular Italian singer Gianna Nannini. Sandro had a five-year career in Formula One racing, which culminated in an impressive victory at the 1989 Japanese Grand Prix.
Unfortunately, his career was cut short only a year later after a terrible helicopter accident in which his right forearm was severed.
Despite the premature end of his racing career, Sandro is still remembered today as one of the most talented and successful Italian drivers of his generation.
19. Giancarlo Baghetti
Giancarlo Baghetti was an Italian racing driver who competed in Formula One from 1961 to 1964. He was a part of some of the most famous teams in Formula One history, including Ferrari, Automobili Turismo e Sport, BRM, Brabham and Lotus.
Baghetti was known for his ability to quickly adapt to new cars and teams, which enabled him to get good results in a relatively short amount of time. He debuted at the 1961 Monaco Grand Prix, driving for Ferrari.
Despite being a rookie, he finished in fourth place, earning the first-ever race win for a Formula One driver in their debut race. This impressive feat made him an instant sensation and earned him a full-time seat with the team.
He went on to race for Automobili Turismo e Sport in 1962 and 1963, before moving to BRM for the 1964 season. Baghetti raced for BRM for only one season, but he made an impression in the few races he competed in.
He was then signed by Brabham for the 1965 season, where he drove for one year before moving to Lotus.
Although he was not able to replicate his Monaco success, he still managed to record a number of good results with Lotus, including a fourth place finish at the 1967 Italian Grand Prix. Baghetti’s Formula One career was relatively short, but he made a lasting impression on the world of racing.
He will be remembered for his impressive debut at the Monaco Grand Prix, as well as his ability to quickly adapt to new cars and teams. He will forever be known as one of the most successful drivers to have ever raced in Formula One.
20. Vittorio Brambilla
Vittorio Brambilla was an Italian Formula One driver who competed for the March, Surtees and Alfa Romeo teams. He was known as “The Monza Gorilla” for his aggressive driving style and macho attitude on the track.
Brambilla was particularly talented in wet weather conditions, which often gave him an edge over his rivals. He would take risks that others would not, pushing his car to the limit and often taking daring maneuvers.
His willingness to take risks, combined with his superior driving skills, allowed him to become one of the top drivers in the sport. His aggressive driving style often led spectators to cheer and roar when he was on the track, as he was seen as a fearless and daring driver.
Brambilla’s passion for racing made him a beloved figure in the racing world, and he will continue to be remembered as a talented driver who was willing to take some risks in order to win.
21. Luigi Villoresi
Luigi Villoresi was an Italian Grand Prix motor racing driver who had a passion for speed and the thrill of the race. He was born in 1909 in Milan and first started racing in the late 1920s.
Villoresi took part in many races around Europe and eventually made his way to Formula One. He was one of the drivers who was present when Formula One first started in 1950 and quickly made a name for himself.
He was considered one of the best drivers of his time, and he was known for his fearless driving style. He won a total of four Grand Prix races throughout his career, and he was considered one of the best drivers of the 1950s.
Villoresi retired from racing in 1960, but his legacy lives on as one of the greatest drivers to ever grace the Formula One circuit.
22. Lella Lombardi
Maria Grazia “Lella” Lombardi was an Italian racing driver who made history in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix.
Her career in the sport began in 1974 when she became the first full-time female driver in Formula One, and the first woman to compete in a championship Grand Prix. She went on to compete in 17 Grands Prix and is the only female driver to have scored points in Formula One.
Lombardi was a trailblazer in the sport, and her success paved the way for other female drivers to follow in her footsteps.
She was an inspiration to many, and her courage and determination to break through the barriers of chauvinism that were prevalent in the world of motorsport at the time deserve recognition.
Lombardi’s career was ultimately cut short in 1980 when she was forced into retirement following the death of her father. Despite this, her legacy lives on, with the FIA recently launching the Lella Lombardi Trophy in recognition of her achievements.
Her courage and tenacity helped to make a lasting impact on the sport, and she will forever be remembered as one of the greatest female drivers in Formula One history.
23. Andrea de Cesaris
Andrea de Cesaris was a professional racing driver from Italy who competed in the Formula One Grand Prix. He was known for his speed, but also for his tendency to be involved in accidents. During his career, he started in 208 Grand Prix races but never won a single one.
This earned him the record for the most Grand Prix races started without a victory. In addition to his speed, de Cesaris was also renowned for his wild driving style.
In the early part of his career, he was constantly involved in accidents, leading to his reputation as a fast but risky driver.
This risky style was often the cause of his failure to finish races and was one of the most significant factors in his lack of success in the Grand Prix circuit. Despite his lack of success in the Grand Prix, de Cesaris was still an incredibly talented driver.
He was able to get the most out of his cars, and his speed was undeniable. Although he never won a race, de Cesaris was still able to make a name for himself in the racing world.
24. Pierluigi Martini
Pierluigi Martini is an Italian former racing driver who enjoyed great success in his career. He is best known for his victory in the 1999 24 Hours of Le Mans, considered one of the most prestigious and grueling endurance races in the world.
Additionally, he participated in a total of 124 Formula One Grands Prix between 1984 and 1995. During this time, he managed to achieve numerous podium finishes, as well as pole positions.
He also achieved a total of 5 championship points, which earned him a place in the history books as one of the most successful Italian drivers of the era.
Throughout his career, Pierluigi Martini was known for his skill and determination, often pushing himself and his car to the limit.
He was also known for having a keen eye for detail, as well as a vast knowledge of the sport, which allowed him to consistently perform at the highest level.
His passion for the sport was matched only by his commitment to excellence, making him a true legend in the world of racing.
25. Vitantonio Liuzzi
Vitantonio “Tonio” Liuzzi is an Italian professional racing driver with over a decade of experience in the world of Formula One. He has raced for some of the top teams in the sport, including Red Bull, Toro Rosso, Force India and HRT.
Liuzzi has competed in numerous Grand Prix races and achieved success in a variety of championships. He has had some memorable moments, including a victory at the 2006 Italian Grand Prix.
Liuzzi’s success has earned him the respect of many in the racing world, and he is now considered to be one of the top drivers in Formula One.
Liuzzi is a passionate racer who is always striving to achieve the best results possible, and his commitment to the sport is undeniable.
26. Emanuele Pirro
Emanuele Pirro is an Italian racing driver who has had an extensive career in motorsports. He has competed in Formula One, the highest level of single-seater racing, as well as in touring car championships and endurance races.
One of his greatest achievements is his five wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the world’s most prestigious endurance race. This feat has earned him the nickname ‘Mister Le Mans’ and he is widely considered one of the most successful drivers in endurance racing.
Pirro has also had great success in other forms of racing, including two wins in the American Le Mans Series, four in the European Touring Car Championship and three in the Super Touring Italian Championship.
He has also been a member of the Ferrari Formula One team and finished on the podium in the 1995 Monaco Grand Prix. Pirro’s career as a racing driver has spanned over three decades, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers of his generation.
27. Andrea de Adamich
Andrea Lodovico de Adamich was a professional racing driver from Italy. He had a long and successful career, competing in 34 Formula One Grands Prix, the highest class of single-seater auto racing sanctioned by the FIA.
Adamich made his debut on 1 January 1968 and was able to achieve respectable results. He scored a total of six championship points throughout his career.
In addition to competing in the Formula One World Championship, Adamich also raced in numerous non-championship Formula One events, giving him a broad experience of the sport. Adamich’s commitment to the sport was commendable and he is remembered fondly by the racing community.
28. Stefano Modena
Stefano Modena is a well-known name in the world of motorsports. He is a former racing driver from Italy who participated in 81 Formula One Grands Prix. Modena made his debut in Formula One on November 15, 1987, and during his career, he achieved two podiums.
He was able to score a total of 17 championship points in his career, making him a successful driver in the world of Formula One. Modena was known for his skill behind the wheel and for his ability to navigate the track and drive fast.
He was able to stay competitive with the other drivers and show off his talent for racing. He was able to use his experience to his advantage to make sure he was always competitive on the track. Modena is a name that will go down in the history books of motorsports.
He was able to make a name for himself in Formula One and show the world what he was capable of. His legacy will live on for many years to come and he will be remembered as a talented and successful driver.
29. Alex Caffi
Alessandro Giuseppe “Alex” Caffi is an Italian racing driver who has had a long and successful career in motorsport. He began his racing career in 1986, when he debuted at the Formula One Grand Prix on 7 September.
Over the course of his career, he participated in 75 Grands Prix. In 2006, he made the move to the Grand Prix Masters formula for retired Formula One drivers, which was the inaugural season for the series.
He also owns his own racing team, which he founded after retiring from Formula One racing. Caffi is a highly accomplished racer, and his career has spanned several decades.
He is an inspiration to other racing drivers, and his accomplishments are something that many dream of achieving.
30. Bruno Giacomelli
Bruno Giacomelli is a retired racing driver from Italy. He had a successful career in motorsport, having won the 1976 British Formula 3 Championship and the 1978 Formula Two Championship. Giacomelli’s Formula One career began on 11 September 1977.
Throughout his career, he took part in 82 Formula One Grand Prix races. Giacomelli’s best Formula One result was third place at the 1980 United States Grand Prix West, and he was able to score a total of 14 championship points.
Giacomelli retired from racing in 1987, but he remains an important figure in motorsport, having achieved a great deal of success during his career.
31. Arturo Merzario
Arturo Francesco “Art” Merzario is a former racing driver from Italy. He is best known for competing in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, beginning with the 1972 British Grand Prix.
Over the course of his career, he participated in 85 Grand Prix and managed to score 11 championship points. He began his career in the mid-1960s by competing in various local and regional events.
He achieved some success and was eventually invited to join the Ferrari team in 1972. He competed in several Grands Prix, achieving a best finish of 5th at the Canadian Grand Prix. He continued to compete in Formula One until 1982 when he retired from the sport.
In addition to his Formula One career, Merzario also raced in other disciplines such as endurance racing and touring cars.
He won the Italian Touring Car Championship in 1980 and also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the World Sportscar Championship and the World Rally Championship. He also managed a team in the Italian Formula Three Championship in the early 1990s.
Merzario’s career in motor racing is one of considerable success. He achieved a total of 11 championship points during his time in Formula One and won the Italian Touring Car Championship in 1980.
His participation in other disciplines saw him compete in several prestigious races and championships, cementing his place in motor racing history.
32. Antonio Giovinazzi
Antonio Maria Giovinazzi is an Italian racing driver who is currently competing in the 2023 FIA World Endurance Championship. He is driving for Ferrari – AF Corse, and in addition, he serves as the reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari, Haas and Alfa Romeo Racing in Formula One.
Giovinazzi has been involved in the world of racing for quite some time and can now be seen competing in some of the most prestigious competitions in the world.
He is not only an experienced driver, but also a valuable team member, as he can act as a reserve driver for multiple teams. This allows him to be a part of multiple teams and gain invaluable experience in the world of racing.
Giovinazzi is a highly skilled racing driver, and his ability to compete in numerous championships is a testament to his talent and passion.
33. Gianni Morbidelli
Gianni Morbidelli is an Italian racing driver who is currently competing in the TCR International Series. He has had an impressive career, having competed in 70 Formula One Grands Prix since his debut on 11 March 1990.
During this time, he achieved one podium finish and a total of 8.5 championship points. Starting his career in the Italian Formula Three Championship in 1988, Morbidelli raced for two seasons before finally graduating to the larger Formula One stage.
After his debut, he quickly proved his worth and even managed to secure a podium finish at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1993.
Morbidelli also made a name for himself in touring car racing, having competed in the Italian Superturismo Championship, the World Touring Car Masters and the Superstars Series.
In recent years, Morbidelli has become a more permanent fixture on the TCR International Series circuit. He has achieved considerable success, most notably winning the 2017 TCR Italy title. Morbidelli’s career has been nothing short of impressive.
He has achieved success in multiple racing disciplines throughout his career, proving his versatility as an outstanding driver.
34. Ivan Capelli
Ivan Franco Capelli is a former Formula One driver who had a successful career from 1985 to 1998. He made his debut in the sport in October 1985 and went on to compete in 98 Grands Prix throughout his career.
During this time, he achieved an impressive three podiums and scored a total of 31 championship points.
After his retirement from racing, Capelli remained involved in the sport by becoming a Formula One commentator for Italian TV station Rai 1, a role he held from 1998 until 2017.
Throughout his time in the sport, Capelli has earned a reputation as one of the most talented and successful drivers of his era.
35. Eugenio Castellotti
Eugenio Castellotti was an Italian Formula One racing driver who rose to fame in the 1950s.
Born in Milan on the 12th of February 1926, he was a child prodigy who started racing motorcycles at the age of twelve and quickly established himself as one of the most talented racers in Italy.
He made his Formula One debut in 1956, competing in the Monaco Grand Prix for Maserati, and would go on to participate in 19 Formula One races for teams like Ferrari and Vanwall.
Castellotti was known for his skill and daring driving style, often pushing the limits of his cars and the track. He won several Formula One races during his career, including the 1956 Grand Prix of Syracuse and the 1957 Grand Prix of Naples.
He also had several podium finishes, including second place at the 1957 Monaco Grand Prix. Unfortunately, his career was cut short when he was killed in a crash during a private test session in 1957. His death shocked the racing world and his legacy still lives on today.
36. Felice Bonetto
Felice Bonetto was an Italian racing driver who was known for his courage and skill. He was given the nickname Il Pirata, which translates to The Pirate, due to his daring racing style.
Bonetto began his career in the 1930s and quickly established himself as a road racing legend. In 1953, Bonetto enjoyed a brief Formula One career, culminating in a win in the non-Championship Grande Premio do Jubileu.
His win was impressive and showed the world just how talented a driver he was. He became a respected figure in the world of racing and was remembered as a brave and talented individual. Bonetto’s career was short but he still left an impression on the racing world.
He was a courageous and talented driver who was not afraid to take risks and push himself to the limits. His legacy lives on and he is remembered fondly as one of the greats of road racing.
37. Umberto Maglioli
Umberto Maglioli was an Italian racing driver who achieved recognition for his success in Formula One. He made his debut in the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix on September 13, 1953.
Throughout his career, Maglioli participated in a total of 10 of these prestigious races. Of these 10, he was able to finish in a podium position in two races, earning him a total of 3 and 1/3 championship points.
Maglioli’s success in Formula One secured his place in motor racing history and his victories will forever remain a part of the annals of the sport.
38. Giorgio Scarlatti
Giorgio Scarlatti was an Italian racing driver who is best known for his participation in Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. His racing career began on 13 May 1956, when he made his debut in the Grand Prix circuit.
During his time in the racing world, Giorgio was able to compete in a total of 15 Grands Prix events. Giorgio was a very talented driver, known for his skill and aggressive yet controlled driving style.
He was able to place himself in the top 10 finishers in four of the races he competed in, and was able to secure a podium finish in his first-ever Grand Prix race.
Despite being relatively successful, Giorgio’s racing career was cut short when he was involved in a fatal accident during practice for the 1957 Monaco Grand Prix. Although Giorgio’s racing career was short, he left behind a legacy that is remembered today.
He was highly regarded for his skill and dedication to the sport and is still remembered fondly by those who knew him. Giorgio was an inspiration to many, and his legacy will live on as an example of determination and passion.
39. Corrado Fabi
Corrado Fabi is a former Italian racing driver who competed in the Formula One Grand Prix series. He made his debut on 13 March 1983 and was unable to gain any championship points.
Prior to Formula One, Corrado had achieved success in the European Formula Two Championship, where he won the title in 1982 driving a March BMW. Corrado is the younger brother of Teo Fabi, who was also a successful racing driver.
Both brothers had an impressive career in motorsport and achieved considerable success during their respective careers.
40. Andrea Montermini
Andrea Montermini is a professional racing driver from Italy. He has been involved in several professional racing circuits throughout his career, including Formula One, IndyCar, and 24 Hours of Le Mans.
He has also competed in the Super Formula Championship, the European Formula 3000 Championship, and the Italian Formula Three Championship. Montermini’s racing career began in the late 1980s when he competed in the Italian Formula Three Championship.
He quickly rose through the ranks and in the early 1990s, he made the jump to the Formula One circuit. During this period, he drove for Simtek, Footwork, and Pacific Racing, but unfortunately, he was never able to secure a podium finish.
In 1998, Montermini moved to the IndyCar racing series, where he drove for the Payton/Coyne Racing team. He had a few top 10 finishes and was able to secure his first podium finish at the 2000 New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
In 2003, he moved to the 24 Hours of Le Mans race and had a successful stint there, finishing in the top 10 several times. Throughout his career, Montermini has been a consistent figure on the international racing circuit.
He has competed in many different series and has had some notable successes along the way. Although he has never won a major championship, his career is a testament to his dedication and skill as a racing driver.
41. Luca Badoer
Luca Badoer is an Italian former racing driver who made a name for himself in the world of motorsports. He has competed in Formula One, Formula 3000, and World Sportscar Championship over his career.
Badoer began his Formula One career in 1993 when he drove for the Scuderia Italia team. He raced with them for six seasons before moving to Minardi for the 1999 season. In 2000, he moved to Forti Corse, where he stayed until 2001.
Most recently, he raced for Ferrari in 2009 and 2010. Badoer has had great success with his teams, taking three podiums and scoring a total of 52 points. He has also been the official test driver for Ferrari from 1998 until his retirement in 2011.
Despite not having the most illustrious career in Formula One, Badoer was an important part of many teams and made an impact on the sport.
42. Gabriele Tarquini
Gabriele Tarquini is an Italian former racing driver who made his Formula One debut on May 3, 1987. During his career as a driver, he participated in 78 Formula One Grands Prix.
Despite the fact that he raced in so many Grand Prix, he only managed to score one point in the championship standings. However, he did manage to set a record that still stands today – he has the highest number of failed attempts to qualify for a race.
This shows that despite his struggles, Tarquini was a very determined and persistent driver who was always striving to do his best. He was able to make the most of the opportunities he had and make a name for himself in the racing world.
43. Giorgio Pantano
Giorgio Pantano is an Italian professional racing driver who has made a name for himself in the world of Formula One and Formula 3000. He started his Formula One career in 2004 when he signed with the Jordan Formula One team.
He was originally a test driver for the team but eventually worked his way up to become a race driver.
Pantano had a successful stint with the team but was eventually replaced by Timo Glock in the middle of the season. In addition to Formula One, Pantano also raced in Formula 3000, where he had some success as well.
He participated in several races in the series and was able to make a name for himself in this competition as well. After a successful career in both Formula One and Formula 3000, Pantano decided to retire from racing at the end of 2014.
He ended his career with a memorable performance and a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.
44. Gianmaria Bruni
Gianmaria “Gimmi” Bruni is an Italian professional auto racing driver who currently competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
He has previously been a factory driver for Porsche and a Formula One driver for Minardi. Bruni began his career in karting in 1995 and competed in the Italian Karting Championship for two years.
In 1997 he raced in Formula Renault, finishing fourth overall and second in the Italian series. He moved up to Italian Formula Three in 1998 and was runner-up in the championship.
The following year he won the title. In 2000, Bruni moved to Formula 3000 and won the championship with three race wins. In 2003, he made his debut in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and won the GTS class. In 2004, Bruni joined Minardi for the Formula One season.
He was the team’s sole driver but retired from the first two races of the season due to engine failure.
He scored his first points at the German Grand Prix and finished the season in 17th place in the driver’s championship. In 2005, Bruni joined Porsche as a factory driver for their LMP2 class in the Le Mans Series and American Le Mans Series.
In 2006, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the LMP2 class.
He continued to race with Porsche until the end of the 2018 season, winning the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015 and 2017. Bruni is one of the most successful and experienced drivers in the world, having competed in a variety of championships and races.
He is a talented and experienced driver who has achieved great success in Formula One, endurance racing and in other forms of motorsport.
45. Nanni Galli
Giovanni Giuseppe Gilberto “Nanni” Galli was an Italian racing driver who competed in saloon, sports-car, and Formula One races in the 1960s and 1970s. He was born in Bologna, Italy and started his career in endurance racing.
He was a successful driver, and his accomplishments include winning the Circuit of Mugello race in 1968 and finishing second in the Targa Florio also in 1968.Galli was a talented driver who could compete in both sports-car and Formula One racing.
He competed in the World Sportscar Championship in the late 1960s and early 1970s, driving for Ferrari, Matra, and Alfa Romeo. He won the Circuit of Mugello race in 1968, driving a Ferrari Daytona.
He also achieved a second-place finish at the Targa Florio in 1968, driving an Alfa Romeo T33/2.Galli also had a successful career in Formula One. He competed in the 1971 and 1972 Formula One season, driving for Ferrari and BRM.
He achieved a best result of fourth place in the 1971 Canadian Grand Prix. He also competed in the 1973 Formula One season for BRM, but his results were lackluster. Galli was a popular driver in his era, and he was known for his skill and determination on the track.
He was a talented driver who could compete in multiple forms of racing, and he had a successful career in endurance and Formula One racing. He will always be remembered for his accomplishments in the world of motorsport.
46. Nicola Larini
Nicola Larini is an Italian racing driver who has competed in 75 Formula One Grands Prix since his debut on 6 September 1987. He is best known for his performance in the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, where he finished second as a substitute driver for Ferrari.
This was one of the most tragic events in Formula One history due to the deaths of Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger during the race. Despite this strong showing, Larini only scored points once more in his career.
Throughout the remainder of his Formula One career, he was largely unable to secure strong results, and his career ended in 1995.
47. Michela Cerruti
Michela Cerruti is an Italian professional racing driver who is currently competing in the TCR International Series, a series of motor races that is held annually. She is driving for Mulsanne Racing, an Italian motor racing team that is based in Milan.
Cerruti has been involved in motor racing since 2002 and has competed in a variety of different series, including the Italian Formula Three Championship and the Superstars Series.
She has also participated in the 24 Hours of Spa, the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Cerruti is considered to be one of the most successful female racers in the history of motor racing, as she has won several races and championships throughout her career.
In addition to her success on the track, she is also known for her commitment to raising awareness for environmental issues, as she is an ambassador and spokesperson for the FIA Environmental Accreditation Programme.
Conclusion
Italy has a long and proud tradition of auto racing, and some of the best racers in the world have come from that country.
From Enzo Ferrari to Valentino Rossi, these drivers have pushed the boundaries of the sport and have become some of the most respected drivers in all of motorsport.
They have set the standards for excellence in auto racing and have made Italy one of the top destinations for auto racing around the world.
