Ferrari, a name synonymous with speed, elegance, and automotive excellence, has captivated car lovers for nearly a century.
But recently, the company unveiled a long-hidden secret that rewrites part of its legendary story – a secret about the Ferrari red, a color many assumed was the brand’s original and only choice. As it turns out, that belief isn’t entirely accurate.
The origins of Ferrari
Ferrari’s journey began well before the official formation of the company we know today. In 1920, Enzo Ferrari joined Alfa Romeo as a test driver. Over time, his influence within the company grew, and in 1929, Alfa Romeo founded Scuderia Ferrari, their motorsport division, under his guidance. Then, in 1939, Enzo Ferrari parted ways with Alfa Romeo to establish his own company: Auto-Avio Costruzioni.
It wasn’t until 1947 that Ferrari S.p.A. was officially founded. That same year marked a defining moment in motorsport history: Ferrari’s first official car, the 125 S, won its debut race. This victory signaled the start of Ferrari’s dominance both on and off the track. From Formula One championships to world-class supercars, Ferrari carved out an unrivaled legacy.
he passing of Enzo Ferrari in 1988 marked the end of an era, but his vision still drives the company today. His final resting place is in the San Cataldo cemetery in Modena, near Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters.
The myth of the “Ferrari red”
For decades, the fiery “Ferrari red” has been the brand’s hallmark. Known as Rosso Corsa, the vibrant shade has become instantly recognizable and closely tied to Ferrari’s identity. However, few people realize that this color wasn’t Enzo Ferrari’s original preference.
In fact, the adoption of red as Ferrari’s primary racing color wasn’t entirely the company’s decision. In the early 20th century, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) assigned racing colors to nations. Italy was designated red, Britain green, France blue, and Germany white (later silver). As Ferrari emerged from Alfa Romeo’s shadow, it naturally adopted Italy’s assigned racing color – red. Thus, what we now see as a branding decision was more a matter of international regulation than personal taste.
Enzo Ferrari’s true color choice
So what was Enzo Ferrari’s first choice? Surprisingly, it wasn’t red at all – it was yellow. This revelation has remained obscured for over seven decades.
The first independent Ferrari car to be publicly unveiled after the split from Alfa Romeo was the 195 Inter Berlinetta by Salvatore Ammendola, presented at the Coppa Inter-Europa on April 15, 1951. The car’s color? A stunning, bright yellow – a hue that reflected the Modena’s flag, Enzo’s birthplace.
While red became the standard due to racing tradition, Enzo’s heart leaned toward yellow. In fact, the prancing horse logo is set against a yellow background, a subtle nod to his true preference. Had history played out differently, we may be admiring yellow Ferraris zipping down roads today instead of the familiar red.
A new era of competition and innovation
Ferrari’s past may be rooted in history and tradition, but the automotive industry is evolving rapidly.
Electric supercars from competitors now outperform traditional combustion engines, and the climate-conscious shift in consumer values is forcing even the most established brands to innovate. In this increasingly competitive landscape, Ferrari faces the challenge of maintaining its prestige while adapting to new technologies.
Color may seem like a minor detail, but it symbolizes broader questions about identity and change. Can Ferrari continue to lead the super car market as it enters the electric age?
Will it ever officially embrace the “forgotten” color and offer yellow as a new standard? Whether in red, yellow, or a new electric green, all eyes remain on Ferrari to see what the next chapter will bring.