Giovanni Bracco

Giovanni Bracco, born on June 6, 1908, in Biella, Piémont, Italy, was a notable Italian racing car driver, remembered for his significant contributions to motorsport both before and after World War II. His life and career in racing left a lasting impact, marked by both triumph and tragedy. Bracco passed away on August 7, 1968, in his hometown, leaving behind a legacy in the world of racing.

Early Life and Background

Birth: June 6, 1908
Hometown: Biella, Piémont, Italy – a place also known for other racing personalities like Mario Porrino and Lamberto Grolla.

Racing Career

Pre-World War II: Bracco began his racing career driving Lancia Aprilias.
1947 Tragedy: At the Modena Grand Prix on September 28, 1947, he experienced a significant setback when he lost control of his Delage 3000, leading to an accident that resulted in the death of five spectators.
1948 Italian Grand Prix: Achieved a notable victory in the 2-litre class driving a Maserati A6 GCS.
Ferrari Team (1950-1952): He joined Scuderia Ferrari, one of the most prestigious teams in racing.
1952 Mille Miglia: Scored a win in this iconic road race driving a Ferrari 250 S.
1951 Mille Miglia: Alongside his pupil, Umberto Maglioli, Bracco finished second, driving a Lancia Aurelia B20.
Later Years: Raced a Maserati 200S in 1955.

The timeline chart above illustrates key events in Giovanni Bracco’s life and racing career, from his birth in Biella, Piémont, to his major racing accomplishments and his passing. This timeline provides a chronological overview of the pivotal moments in his life.

Formula One World Championship

1950 Season: Drove for Scuderia Ferrari in a Ferrari 125 with a Ferrari V12 engine.
Races: Participated in various Grand Prix events (GBR, MON, 500, SUI, BEL, FRA, ITA), but did not achieve a notable ranking (DNA – Did Not Achieve, NC – Not Classified, 0 Points).

Legacy and Impact

Never Ranked: Despite his participation in Formula One, Bracco was never ranked in the World Championship.
Versatility: His career showcased his ability to handle a variety of cars from different manufacturers.
Tragic Figure: The 1947 Modena incident cast a long shadow over his career, juxtaposing his racing successes with personal tragedy.

Giovanni Bracco’s journey in motorsport is a tale of highs and lows, characterized by significant victories and profound setbacks. His story reflects the passion and risks inherent in early motor racing and remains a part of Italy’s rich racing heritage.

The bar chart above displays Giovanni Bracco’s major race results. It highlights his first-place finish in the 1948 Italian Grand Prix (2-litre class), his second-place finish in the 1951 Mille Miglia, and another first-place finish in the 1952 Mille Miglia. This chart provides a quick visual reference to his most significant achievements in racing.