Niki Lauda drove for Ferrari from 1974 to 1977, securing two F1 World Championships in 1975 and 1977, cementing his status as a Scuderia legend.
Lauda’s near-fatal crash during the 1976 German Grand Prix strained his relationship with Ferrari.
Despite his miraculous comeback, Ferrari’s decision to sign Emerson Fittipaldi in his absence left Lauda feeling abandoned.
Lauda famously retired from the rain-soaked final race of 1976 in Japan, missing out on back-to-back titles.
Enzo Ferrari believed Lauda should have pushed harder, further straining their relationship.
Despite the tension, mutual respect between Lauda and Ferrari endured.
Lauda’s contributions helped shape Ferrari’s dominance in the 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the team.
In 1984, as a gesture of reconciliation, Enzo Ferrari gifted Lauda a Ferrari 288 GTO, an ultra-rare icon with only 272 units produced.
Production had ended, but Enzo and Fiat CEO Vittorio Ghidella arranged to build one.
In March 1986, the GTO was discreetly presented to Lauda at an airfield, symbolising Ferrari’s acknowledgement of Lauda’s legacy and contribution.
It was Enzo’s way of apologising and showing that their bond went beyond racing.
This action highlights motorsport’s deep, complex relationships, where respect transcends contracts and trophies.
The gift of the GTO was a powerful testament to Lauda’s influence and Ferrari’s appreciation.
‘Most people get a bottle of wine as an apology gift. Niki Lauda? He receives a Ferrari 288 GTO. Well played, Enzo, well played’
