#LuigiChinetti

Luigi Chinetti (Jerago con Orago, July 17, 1901 – Greenwich, August 17, 1994) was an Italian racing driver and entrepreneur who later became a U.S. citizen. He was one of the most influential figures in Ferrari’s early success, both as a driver and as a key promoter of the brand in North America. Driving an Alfa Romeo 8C, Chinetti won his first 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1932, alongside co-driver Raymond Sommer. The following year, in 1933, he secured victory in the 24 Hours of Spa together with Louis Chiron. In 1934, partnering with Philippe Étancelin, he claimed his second 24 Hours of Le Mans, once again driving an Alfa Romeo 8C. Following World War II, Chinetti played a crucial role in Ferrari’s expansion beyond Europe. He won his third 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1949, driving a Ferrari 166MM, marking Ferrari’s first-ever victory at the prestigious endurance race. He also co-drove the winning car with Lord Selsdon (Peter Mitchell-Thomson), driving the majority of the race himself. In 1953, Chinetti ended his competitive racing career and became Ferrari’s official importer in North America, establishing the first dealership for the brand in the United States. His influence was instrumental in popularizing Ferrari among American enthusiasts and customers, helping to shape the company’s commercial and racing presence in the U.S. In 1958, he founded the North American Racing Team (NART), a private Ferrari-backed racing team that competed in major international endurance races. NART played a significant role in Ferrari’s history, achieving notable successes, including a class win at Le Mans in 1965 with a Ferrari 250LM, the last Ferrari to win the race overall. NART remained active until 1982 and was responsible for introducing exclusive Ferrari road models, such as the Ferrari 275 GTB/4 NART Spider. Luigi Chinetti’s legacy extends beyond his racing achievements, as he was instrumental in establishing Ferrari’s reputation in the United States and shaping the brand’s identity among American collectors and racers.

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