Consalvo Sanesi

Consalvo Sanesi, born on March 28, 1911, was a prominent figure in the world of motorsport, best known for his role as the Alfa Romeo works test driver in the post-World War II era. His career spanned the formative years of Formula One, during which he competed in five World Championship Grands Prix, making his debut on September 3, 1950. Despite his remarkable skill and experience with the Alfa Romeo Tipo 158/159 cars, Sanesi's racing results were often disappointing, culminating in a total of only three championship points.

Sanesi's prowess was particularly evident in sports car racing, where he achieved notable success well into the mid-1960s. In the 1953 Mille Miglia, he recorded the fastest stage average speed of one hundred twelve point eight miles per hour, outpacing legendary drivers like Nino Farina and Juan Manuel Fangio. Unfortunately, mechanical issues prevented him from finishing the race. The following year, however, he triumphed by winning his class in the prestigious Carrera Panamericana.

In November 1954, Sanesi entered an Alfa Romeo in the Pan American race in Mexico, where he initially led the European touring car class. Despite a strong performance, he was eventually overtaken by fellow Italian drivers Sergio Mantovani and Mario Della Favera. Nevertheless, Sanesi's team dominated the event, with Alfa Romeo securing the top five positions in the European touring car division.

Tragically, Sanesi's racing career came to an abrupt end following a harrowing near-fatal accident during the 1964 12 Hours of Sebring. After a crash, his Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ caught fire, and it was only the brave actions of fellow driver Jocko Maggiacomo, who rescued him from the flames, that saved his life. In recognition of his heroism, Maggiacomo was awarded the Gentleman of the Road accolade by the Milan Automobile Club in November 1964.