How Enzo Ferrari duped Fiat in the Alfa Romeo

Turning the big wheel: Enzo Ferrari Image: ddp

100 years ago, the biggest name in Formula 1 history won, to the annoyance of Fiat. Back then, no one could have guessed what existential significance Enzo Ferrari would have for the history of Grand Prix racing.

Formula 1 thrives on big names. But who still thinks of Alfa Romeo when they hear about Enzo Ferrari? 100 years ago, no one could have guessed what existential significance Ferrari would have for the history of Grand Prix racing and for Formula 1, which was introduced in 1950. Enzo Anselmo, supposedly born in 1898, was already driving hard at all levels.

Behind the huge wooden steering wheel he achieved three victories in 1924. Behind this was his biggest coup this year: convincing Alfa Romeo to enter the Grand Prix scene and positioning him as a factory driver against, among others, Fiat. Mamma Mia, not for the faint of heart. Fiat director Giovanni Agnelli is said to have lost it.