#FrancoBordoni

Franco Bordoni Bisleri (1913–1975) was an Italian liquor industrialist, World War II ace pilot, and celebrated race car driver. Born in Milan to the family behind the famous "Ferro-China Bisleri" amaro, his nickname "Robur" stemmed from the brand's logo. After earning civil and military pilot licenses in the 1930s, he became Italy’s top-scoring fighter pilot in the Desert Campaign with 19 victories, earning several military honors. Post-war, Bordoni led his family business and pursued motorsport, debuting at the 1949 Mille Miglia in a Fiat 1100B and later achieving success in a Dagrada-Fiat Sport 750. In the 1950s, he transitioned to Maserati, Osca, and Gordini cars, earning numerous victories, including the Gran Premio di Pergusa and Trullo d’Oro races. He competed in international events like the Targa Florio, Le Mans, and Nürburgring, often with co-drivers such as Giulio Cabianca and Piero Carini. Bordoni retired from racing in 1959 to focus on his business. Tragically, he died in a plane crash in 1975 near Chiavari, Italy, along with his son and a friend. He is buried in Milan’s Cimitero Monumentale and served as President of the Milano-Bresso Aeroclub.

We'll publish a biography on him on the occasion of his anniversary or when it will be reached a sufficient number of cars.

If you would like to share your knowledge and archive, click on the banner JOIN THE LAB - HELP US TO IMPROVE & COMPLETE THE INFORMATION.

The census of all the cars related to this topic is in progress.