89. Enrico Zanarini

Age 72
Occupation President
Company Media & Sport Management
Country Italy
Position Last Year Up

Born in Bologna, Italy, Enrico Zanarini has quietly shaped the careers of some of Formula 1’s most recognised talents. His journey into motorsport management began in the early 1970s, not on the track, but behind the scenes—as marketing director for Alfa Romeo in Australia and the South Pacific.

In 1986, Zanarini shifted his focus to Europe and fully immersed himself in the world of motorsport sponsorship and driver management. He started working with young talent in Formula 3 and Formula 3000, laying the groundwork for what would become a distinguished career.

His big breakthrough came in 1994, when he began managing Eddie Irvine. By 1996, Zanarini had committed to driver management full-time, helping guide Irvine through pivotal years with Ferrari and Jaguar. This nine-year collaboration solidified Zanarini’s reputation in the elite circles of Formula 1.

READ MORE: Exclusive Interview with Enzo Mucci: The Driving Force Behind Rising Stars Bearman and Lawson

Zanarini’s next major success came with Giancarlo Fisichella. Signing him in 2003, he supported Fisichella through his race-winning years with Renault F1 and later played a key role in arranging his celebrated move to Ferrari in 2009. During this era, Zanarini also ventured into team management, co-founding Fisichella Motor Sport (FMS) with Fisichella. The initiative focused on nurturing the next generation of driving talent.

In 2011, he took on the management of Tonio Liuzzi, adding to his growing list of high-profile clients. By this point, Zanarini had become one of the most experienced and respected driver managers in Formula 1.

Zanarini continued to invest in future stars. In 2013, he signed Antonio Fuoco, a promising member of the Ferrari Driver Academy. Two years later, he added Antonio Giovinazzi to his roster—both drivers seen as part of Italy’s next wave of racing talent.

Through decades of dedication, Giovanni Zanarini has remained a behind-the-scenes powerhouse, quietly shaping the future of motorsport one driver at a time.

Race Ahead – Share What Moves You
Thomas Spink
Thomas Spink

Being a determined voyager, travel blogger, hospitality expert and professional champagne sipper, Thomas uses his talents to delve into the challenging world of Formula 1 and provide unique insights about the circus.

Articles: 434

Newsletter Updates

Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter

Stay informed and not overwhelmed, subscribe now!