Book presentation Formula Italia: The Cars and Drivers Who Made Formula 1 History with author Umberto Zapelloni

The history of Formula 1, when seen up close, reads like a great Italian novel—one that officially began at the Silverstone circuit in 1950 with Nino Farina’s victory. Like many other things, Formula 1 was invented by the British, who, however, had to wait eight years before seeing one of their own drivers at the front—naturally behind the wheel of an Italian car. In fact, the first thirty races were dominated by Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, and Maserati. And three of the first four world champions were Italian. It seemed like the beginning of a lasting dominance.
Instead, after Alberto Ascari, Italy never again produced a driver capable of winning the World Championship, despite the aura and success of the Prancing Horse. In return, however, came managers, engineers, mechanics, PR professionals—men and women alike. And then tires, braking systems, helmets, and racing apparel. In short, Italians have always been key players in the paddock: “Made in Italy” is a guarantee of quality.
Drawing on his long experience in the world of racing, Umberto Zapelloni tells the story of these people and their achievements—a story rich in emotion, innovation, challenges, and daring adventures, from the era of the pioneers to Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has already begun to inspire Italian fans to dream again. A story often painted in Ferrari red, yet one that also leaves room for many unsung heroes and heroines who have made their mark on the fastest sport in the world.