9 replies to this topic

[FlyingSaucer]

Hey all

 

I was digging a little into the history of the forum and found this thread (https://forums.autos...enture-in-1966/), which aligns well with some research I'm doing. 

 

The conversation initially revolved around Parnell's/Ferrari 246T entry in the 1966 Italian GP, ​​however, it later degenerated into a discussion about Jim Palmer's Brabham (what a strange twist in the conversation, isn't it!?).

 

Anyway, I would like to know if, years later, there is any extra information about what led to the partnership between Ferrari and Parnell in that interesting edition of the 1966 Italian GP. Information about the case is still rare on the internet, so if anyone can contribute some data and info regarding this story, that was not yet available in 2002, I would be grateful.

Edited by FlyingSaucer, 08 February 2025 - 14:24.

[Parkesi]

Two additional snippets but basically no NEW information:

 

Autosport, September 16, 1966, Gregor Grant: Baghetti, in what was referred to as the "Sefac Parnelli" 2.4 Ferrari, had an alarming spin when his throttle jammed open.

 

Motor Racing, Number 10, Volume 13: A fourth (V6) Ferrari was brought out from Maranello for Giancarlo Baghetti, who had been signed to drive the spare Parnell Lotus-BRM,

but who was left without a drive when this car`s gearbox packed up on the first day`s practice. Ferrari put the car at the disposal of Tim Parnell for the duration of the race,

along with two mechanic, and Baghetti ran well for most of the race until he slid off at the South Curve, went up a  bank, and reappeared on the track with jammed throttle slides. 

These were cleared out at the pits, and Baghetti reappeared for the closing laps of the race (to the uncontrollable delight of the spectators!), although he was too far behind to qualify,

after having held fifth place for so long, ahead of his Parnell teammat, Mike Spence.

[68targa]

Graham Gauld's book on Reg Parnell also mentions this episode.  He says that the Automobile Club in Milan had written to Tim Parnell to ask him specifically if he would provide a car for Baghetti and in return they would give an excellent financial inducement. The Parnell pit was next to the Ferrari pit, and during first practice Ferrari team manager Dragoni brought Enzo Ferrari over to meet Tim.

 

  "I had met Enzo Ferrari before with my father, and they could see that Baghetti was doing quite well in our underpowered car. Mr Ferrari then told me he had with with them their little Ferrari, the 2.4 litre interim car (ch158/0006) and would we like it for Baghetti?"  "We said Christ, yes of course we would, and he gave us the car. It was wheeled into our pit along with a couple of Ferrari mechanics"    

[Parkesi]

Baghetti „Il Leone di Reims“ Giacomo Arosio (2022) page 81:

 

A short justification.

 

Enzo Ferrari officially explained the decision as follows:

I had noticed yesterday how passionately Baghetti drove at the limit, with a car that was completely uncompetitive,

and I got involved, even if some practical difficulties had to be overcome: Giancarlo deserved this prize.

[FlyingSaucer]

Thxs Chris and Parkesi

 

Well, it's not much, but I think that with all the information you gave, it's possible to at least create a concise picture of what led to the Parnell-Ferrari relationship and a timeline of the facts. 

 

Baghetti's problems with the Lotus/Parnell in the free practice - Enzo Ferrari feeling sorry for his former pupil - a welcome loan for both parties - and the cheering of the Italian fans!

[Doug Nye]

Tim would have done quite well from the Monza organisers for the association with Ferrari and for running Baghetti on his entry...

 

DCN

[10kDA]

Given what the sport has become, this episode is heartwarming. I realize the politicking involved is not totally clear, involving Enzo Ferrari, auto club in Milan, etc., but can you imagine anything like this occurring since the turn of the century in any top-level race series?

[Parkesi]

Of course Enzo Ferrari had the last word but for sure Eugenio Dragoni (still team manager in 1966) was pulling the strings as well. Baghetti came from Milano.

Jonathan Williams: Dragoni was from Milano and would only employ milanese driver. He was an important person in the Automobil Club of Milano.

I saw him there once in the office when I was in Monza for some reason. He was always a very courteous and nice man.

Jonathan was the only person I know who said something positive about Dragoni - in complete contrast to Vaccarella (of Sicily) and BIG John (of South London).

[opplock]

Given what the sport has become, this episode is heartwarming. I realize the politicking involved is not totally clear, involving Enzo Ferrari, auto club in Milan, etc., but can you imagine anything like this occurring since the turn of the century in any top-level race series?

 

Different times. Graham Hill drove a Brabham in the opening practice session for 1969 British GP as no Lotus 49 was available. Presumably no politics involved nor tortuous negotiations over conflicting sponsorship. Imagine the media storm if Verstappen was offered a run in a McLaren even in pre season testing.  

[Doug Nye]

Of course Enzo Ferrari had the last word but for sure Eugenio Dragoni (still team manager in 1966) was pulling the strings as well. Baghetti came from Milano.

Jonathan Williams: Dragoni was from Milano and would only employ milanese driver. He was an important person in the Automobil Club of Milano.

I saw him there once in the office when I was in Monza for some reason. He was always a very courteous and nice man.

Jonathan was the only person I know who said something positive about Dragoni - in complete contrast to Vaccarella (of Sicily) and BIG John (of South London).

 

And Phil Hill...and Richie Ginther...and indeed Mauro Forghieri...         

 

DCN