Mauro Forghieri introduced the first rear wings to Formula One racing at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix. A central figure in the evolution of motorsport technology, he spent decades at Scuderia Ferrari, where his technical oversight directly contributed to seven World Constructors' Championship titles and four World Driver's Championship titles during his tenure as technical director.
Engineering Education and Early Ferrari Tenure
Born in Modena in 1935, Forghieri attended the University of Bologna, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1959. He joined Scuderia Ferrari in 1960 as an apprentice in the engine department. Following the departure of chief designer Carlo Chiti and other key staff in 1961, Enzo Ferrari appointed the young engineer to lead the technical aspects of the factory. Forghieri remained in this role until 1984, managing the testing and drafting departments while overseeing critical design developments.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Technical Innovations in Racing and Production
Forghieri's work spanned a broad range of vehicles, including the 250 GTO and the P-series sports racing cars. He oversaw the implementation of aluminum monocoque chassis technology in the Ferrari 158. His design portfolio included the 312 series, ranging from the 312B to the 312T. In 1979, he developed a prototype semi-automatic transmission and began work on Ferrari's first turbocharged engine, which appeared in the 126 C model by 1981.
Post-Ferrari Career and Consultancy
After leaving Ferrari in 1987, Forghieri transitioned to Lamborghini Engineering, where he designed the 3512 V12 engine used in Formula One. He was instrumental in the technical development of the Lambo 291 car. In 1992, he moved to Bugatti to serve as technical director, contributing to the EB 110 and EB 112 projects.
Fast facts
- Born: 1935, Modena, Italy
- Died: 2022, Modena, Italy
- Education: University of Bologna
- Primary Employer: Scuderia Ferrari
- Notable Innovations: Rear wings in F1, semi-automatic transmission
- Later Organizations: Lamborghini, Bugatti, Oral Engineering Group
Questions readers ask
What was Forghieri's role at Ferrari after 1961?
He was appointed technical director for racing cars, a position he held until 1984, responsible for technical development and race management.
Which major projects did Forghieri work on outside of Ferrari?
He designed the Lamborghini 3512 V12 engine for Formula One and participated in the development of the Bugatti EB 110 and EB 112.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Scuderia Ferrari
- Educated at University of Bologna
- Worked as mechanical engineer
