Stefano Modena

Born

1963-05-12

Birthplace

Modena, Italy

Biography

Stefano Modena, born in Modena, Italy, is a former professional racing driver known for his participation in Formula 1 during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He began his motorsport career in karting, securing the 125cc Junior Karting Championship in Italy. Progressing through the ranks, Modena competed in Italian Formula Ford and Formula 3, achieving notable success. In 1987, he clinched the International Formula 3000 Championship with the Onyx team, marking him as a promising talent. Modena made his Formula 1 debut at the 1987 Australian Grand Prix with Brabham. Over his F1 career, he raced for teams including EuroBrun, Tyrrell, and Jordan, participating in 81 Grands Prix and securing two podium finishes, amassing a total of 17 championship points. His most notable results were a third-place finish at the 1989 Monaco Grand Prix and a second-place at the 1991 Canadian Grand Prix. After retiring from Formula 1 in 1992, Modena transitioned to touring car racing, competing in the Italian and German championships with manufacturers like Alfa Romeo and Opel until 2000. Post-retirement, he collaborated with Bridgestone, contributing to tire development and testing. Modena resides in Rome with his wife, Sveva Altieri, and their two children.