Born on 13 January 1935 in Modena, Mauro Forghieri died earlier today at the age of 87. Initially interested in aviation, Forghieri graduated from the University of Bologna with a degree in mechanical engineering and devoted his career to Ferrari, becoming technical director at 27.
In the ensuing 22 years, he headed the Italian marque’s sporting affairs, in Formula One, GT and endurance, working on the 312 PB sports car, the last factory-run Ferrari to attempt an overall win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ferrari won 16 world titles – 11 Formula One and five in endurance – under Forghieri’s guidance. In 1987 he joined Lamborghini to launch a Formula One project which did not bear fruit. In 1993 Bugatti hired him to develop the EB 110S which was entered for the 1994 24 Hours of Le Mans and span off in the 45 minutes of the race.

Mauro Forghieri’s death comes shortly after the unveiling of the 499P Hypercar, Ferrari’s entry for the 2023 FIA World Endurance Championship, which includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Automobile Club de l’Ouest extends its sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones.

PHOTO: 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966, Mauro Forghieri and John Surtees during practice. 1964 Formula One world champion Surtees stormed out of Scuderia Ferrari before the start of the race proper.