Remembering Ascari’s designated F1 heir

Italy’s Eugenio Castellotti was Alberto Ascari’s designated successor in F1 after the two-time world champion had died in Monza in 1955. Sadly, Castellotti had too little time to confirm his credentials, as the Lombardy-born racer perished aged only 26 when he crashed in a private Ferrari test session held in Modena on this date 59 years ago.

In his all-too-short life and career, Castellotti still managed to win the iconic Mille Miglia and the 12 Hours of Sebring partnering the great Juan Manuel Fangio. In only 14 grand prix starts, the Italian ace secured three podiums and a stunning pole position, outpacing the almighty Mercedes on the fearsome Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in 1955.

Martin Businaro

Recent Posts

Abu Dhabi GP: Thursday's media day in pictures

Formula 1's 2025 season hurtles toward its dramatic close this weekend in Yas Marina, with…

13 hours ago

Verstappen: Let McLaren play games – 'all that matters is the trophy'

In a title showdown charged with tension, numbers, and a hint of intra-team intrigue, Max…

13 hours ago

Leclerc says Ferrari early pivot to 2026 ‘a no-brainer’

Charles Leclerc isn’t sugarcoating Ferrari’s struggles this season – but he also isn’t second-guessing the…

15 hours ago

Hadjar moving to Red Bull with ‘no expectations’ amid 2026 reset

Red Bull Racing’s newest recruit, Isack Hadjar, is stepping into Formula 1’s hottest seat with…

16 hours ago

Norris won’t ask Piastri for title help: ‘It’s not really up to me’

Lando Norris may be on the brink of his first Formula 1 world championship, but…

17 hours ago

Mansell’s need for speed hits a roadblock

On this day in 1997, Nigel Mansell was swiftly cruising at the wheel of his…

19 hours ago