....and another grand old name passes into history

My condolences to Mark Morrissey on the reported death of Gianpiero Moretti, "Signore MOMO" as he was generally known in Italian automotive circles,.............. on the other hand, Mark's stash should almost instantly increase dramatically in value.

Moretti began manufacturing his steering wheels in '61 actually, but it wasn't until early '64 when Enzo personally called Moretti to order the steering wheel for the Scuderia's latest F-1 car, the '64 Ferrari 158 open-wheeled single-seater, that MOMO steering wheels caught the attention of enthusiasts. That very car was subsequently driven to both '64 World Championships by John Surtees, using the revolutionary thick, small-diameter MOMO steering wheel, ( as opposed to the Les Leeson wheels used heretofore ) shown below at the '11 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, when Surtees, his cars and motorcycles were Special featured guests.

Ciao Signore Moretti..........

Drove a lot of fast cars, FAST...
http://www.racingsportscars.com/driv...Moretti-I.html

I had the notice from friends this morning ( Monza Time)

I'm so so sad.....

Arrivederci Signor Moretti. And thank you for what you have done for our passions.

Actually, to tell you the truth... I'm devastated ... I have so much respect for this man — his life, his racing, his profound insight and vision. I am very, very sad today. I'd been working on getting an interview with the man for a story I've had in the oven and had not been able to get it done because of his health issues. It's been coming for over a year now. You know I don't give a damn about the story, really. I was so excited about the prospects of actually speaking with him. Somehow I had hoped he would get better, but it wasn't to be.

Riposa in pace amico mio. Ti amo


Photos courtesy of Paolo D’Alessio

Did anyone notice the lovely tribute to Signor Moretti at the 24 of Daytona?

http://www.motorsport.com/#!/grandam...=1284303&i=164

Very poignant. Thanks for sharing Mark.

A path we will all face someday, it just seems all to soon , the pathway beckons.

Love the picture of Paul with his arm on him......miss them both !