23.1.2006

One of the recurring subjects of after dinner discussion amongst older tifosi has always been "Why haven't Martini ever sponsored Ferrari"? On the face of it the two seem made for each other, both Italian, both emblematic of the "beautiful life".

The drinks company have famously been associated with motor racing for nearly forty years in a series of glamorous and successful collaborations and their charismatic livery has always quickened the hearts of enthusiasts.

From a modest start in 1968, the company went on to sponsor Tecno, Brabham and Lotus in F1, Porsche in sportscar racing, Alfa Romeo (most notably in the DTM) and even a Fiat Cinquecento in rallying, but it's perhaps for their support of Lancia in Endurance racing and latterly rallying for which they are best known, though younger fans may associate them just with Ford's recent WRC programme. But never a hint of a Ferrari - until today.

Martini Racing announced today that they are returning to F1 as sponsors of Scuderia Ferrari in a deal which will last for three years.

"We are extremely excited about our new partnership with the Scuderia Ferrari F1 team," said Robert Furniss-Roe, director of Martini Racing. "We have a long and proud heritage in motorsports and this latest chapter promises to be rewarding and exciting for us and our consumers.

"Ferrari has produced some of the most evocative and famous racing cars ever built, and there is no other team in Formula One that better reflects the personality and character of Martini.

"The global appeal of Formula One also provides us with a highly visible platform to engage and communicate with consumers around the world."

It is fascinating to speculate that maybe, all those years ago, Count Rossi and Enzo Ferrari had a falling out over a car or some dolly or something, or just weren't on the same wavelength, but whatever the historical reasons, today's announcement brings the end to a long enigma.

We wish both companies every success in their association, and I for one am just nipping down to the offie for a bottle of "Extra Dry"!

 

Martini's F1 involvement began with Tecno in 1973	They were involved with P*****e for years...	...and with Lancia in sportscar racing and rallying...	..and it's in rallying where they've most recently been involved

Click here to go to Martini Racing's website.