This episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, discusses the Alfa Romeo P2, an iconic racing car designed by Vittorio Jano that debuted 100 years ago. The P2 dominated Grand Prix racing during the two-liter formula in the mid-1920s, helping Alfa Romeo win the first World Championship in 1925. The presentation, delivered by Paul Baxa, explores the broader industrial, cultural, and political significance of the P2 beyond its sporting achievements, particularly its role in Mussolini’s Fascist Italy. The P2’s victories were used by Mussolini’s regime to symbolize Italy’s industrial revival and national pride, while also influencing motorsport culture and politics during that era. The narrative touches on the car’s design, its impact on Italian motorsports, and the personal stories of key figures like Antonio Ascari and Enzo Ferrari. The Alfa Romeo P2 remained successful in racing through the 1930s and eventually became a symbol of Italy’s motorsport legacy.
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