Ferrari goes blue: Miami GP livery to honor North American legacy

Ferrari has announced plans to unveil a special livery for its SF-24 F1 car for next week’s Miami Grand Prix, promising "fresh and unexpected colors" to mark the occasion.

This unique design will feature two historic shades of blue – Azzurro La Plata and Azzurro Dino – commemorating the 70th anniversary of Ferrari's presence in North America.

The switch from the Scuderia’s traditional Rosso Corsa red signifies more than just aesthetics. It's a symbolic nod to a specific period in Ferrari's history.

Back in 1964, Enzo Ferrari entrusted his team’s entries in the US and Mexican Grands Prix – the final two races of the season – to its partner, the North American Racing Team. Its cars therefore appeared draped in the white and dark blue colors of the N.A.R.T.

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However, the specific shades of blue chosen for the Miami livery each carry their own historical weight. Azzurro La Plata, a lighter blue, holds a particular significance as it was the color worn by Ferrari's very first Formula 1 World Champion, Alberto Ascari.

The Italian legend typically donned a blue jersey and helmet, considering them his lucky charms, during his championship victories in 1952 and 1953.

©Ferrari

The tradition continued throughout the 1960s, with drivers like John Surtees and Lorenzo Bandini racing in light blue suits. But Azzurro La Plata wasn't confined to drivers; the Maranello workforce also wore overalls in this specific shade.

Azzurro Dino is a slightly deeper blue hue that was once worn by the late Clay Regazzoni on his period Linea Sport overalls in 1974 before red garments permanently came into force at the Scuderia in the early 1980s.

The unveiling of Ferrari’s modified livery and team kit will take place in Florida leading up to the Miami race.

This special design choice serves not only as a celebration of Ferrari's North American legacy but also as a tribute to the legendary drivers who brought the Scuderia its early success.

©Ferrari

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.