Alex Caffi

Alex Caffi: A Journey Through Formula 1

Alessandro Giuseppe “Alex” Caffi’s Formula 1 career, spanning from 1986 to 1991, was a tale of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. Born on 18 March 1964 in Rovato, Italy, Caffi’s journey in the high-speed world of F1 began with the Osella team at the 1986 Italian Grand Prix. Despite a modest start, finishing last and unclassified, his sensible driving caught the team’s attention, leading to a full-season contract in 1987. However, the season was fraught with difficulties, as the uncompetitive and unreliable Alfa Romeo-powered FA1I led to numerous retirements and non-qualifications.

Caffi’s move to Scuderia Italia in 1988 marked a turning point, showcasing his potential despite early struggles with the new Dallara-built car. His performance improved mid-season, achieving top-10 finishes and demonstrating his growing prowess. The 1989 season brought further success, with Caffi scoring his first Formula One points at the Monaco Grand Prix, a significant milestone for both him and the team.

The 1990s presented new opportunities and challenges for Caffi. Joining Arrows, he showed promise, outperforming his more experienced teammate Michele Alboreto. However, the 1991 season with Footwork proved disastrous, plagued by an underpowered Porsche engine and a series of non-qualifications and retirements. Caffi’s F1 career concluded abruptly in 1992 with Andrea Moda, marked by registration issues and internal conflicts.

Despite the ups and downs, Caffi’s F1 career was a testament to his tenacity and skill in a highly competitive and demanding sport. His journey through the pinnacle of motorsport, though not laden with podiums or championships, remains a story of a driver who navigated the complexities of F1 with determination and grit.

Career Stats

Seasons Competed in

1. 1986 Season
2. 1987 Season
3. 1988 Season
4. 1989 Season
5. 1990 Season
6. 1991 Season