Franco Cortese facts for kids
Franco Cortese was a famous Italian racing driver born on February 10, 1903, in Oggebbio, Piedmont. He passed away on November 13, 1986, in Milan. Franco Cortese had a very long career in racing, competing in 156 races between 1927 and 1958. This included one Formula 1 Grand Prix and three Formula 2 Grands Prix. He holds a special record for finishing the challenging Mille Miglia race fourteen times, which is more than anyone else!
Franco Cortese drove many different cars during his career, including Alfa Romeo vehicles. However, he is most famous for his time with Ferrari from 1947 to 1949. He was the first driver to race a car built by Ferrari. This car, the Ferrari 125 S, brought Ferrari its first four victories in 1947. Later, in 1950, he helped start a Formula One team called Scuderia Ambrosiana with other racing legends like Giovanni Lurani and Luigi Villoresi.
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Franco Cortese: A Racing Legend
Franco Cortese was known for his dedication and skill on the race track. He competed in races for over 30 years, which is a very long time for any athlete! His long career showed his passion for racing and his ability to adapt to different cars and challenges.
Early Days and First Races
Cortese began his racing journey in 1927. His first major race was the Mille Miglia, a famous long-distance road race in Italy. Even in his early years, he showed great promise. He often drove for well-known car makers like Itala and Alfa Romeo. These early experiences helped him become a top driver.
Driving for Ferrari: A Historic Partnership
One of the most important parts of Franco Cortese's career was his connection with Ferrari. In 1947, he became the first driver to race a car built by Enzo Ferrari himself. This car was the Ferrari 125 S. It was a huge moment for Ferrari, as Cortese drove it to victory in four races that year. These wins were the very first for the legendary Ferrari brand. This partnership helped establish Ferrari as a major force in motorsport.
Key Victories and Achievements
Throughout his career, Franco Cortese achieved many notable wins and high finishes. He often placed in the top three in various races across Europe. Some of his significant victories include:
- Winning the Targa Abruzzo multiple times (1934, 1935, 1937).
- Taking first place at the Circuito Varese in 1938.
- Winning the Gran Premio di Tripoli in South Africa in 1939.
- Achieving several victories in 1946 with a Lancia Astura.
- His historic four wins with the Ferrari 125 S in 1947.
- Winning the Pergusa Grand Prix and the Targa Florio in 1951 with a Frazer Nash.
- Winning the Circuito di Senigallia in 1953 with a Ferrari.
- Taking first place at Opatija and Circuito di Caserta in 1956 with a Ferrari 500 TR.
Cortese's ability to win races with different car manufacturers showed his versatility as a driver.
Later Career and Legacy
Even as he got older, Franco Cortese continued to race. He competed until 1958, showing incredible endurance and love for the sport. His record of fourteen finishes in the Mille Miglia is a testament to his consistency and skill in one of the toughest races. His career helped shape the early years of modern motor racing. He is remembered as a pioneering driver who played a key role in Ferrari's beginnings.
