The Origins of the Iconic Ferrari Prancing Horse Logo

The Ferrari prancing horse is one of the most recognizable automotive logos in the world. But its origins stem from a far different realm than the racetrack. The symbol was initially used during World War I, adorning the fighter plane of Italian air force ace, Count Francesco Baracca. Baracca’s SPAD XIII fighter displayed the image of a prancing horse from his family crest, and it soon became a symbol of courage and fear on the battlefield. Baracca was a decorated hero with 34 aerial victories before his tragic death in 1918.

Enzo Ferrari, the man who would later found the Ferrari brand, was deeply inspired by Baracca’s legacy. The connection between Ferrari and the prancing horse was cemented in 1923 when Ferrari, then a racing driver for Alfa Romeo, met Baracca’s parents after a race victory. Baracca’s mother, Countess Paolina, suggested that Ferrari adopt her son’s emblem as a good luck charm. Enzo obliged, and the prancing horse first appeared on Ferrari’s racing cars in 1932 during the Spa Grand Prix, where Ferrari’s team claimed first and second places.

Ferrari modified the original symbol, which was painted red on a white background, by incorporating a yellow backdrop to represent his birthplace, Modena. As Ferrari left Alfa Romeo and established his own racing team, the prancing horse evolved into the emblem we know today, symbolizing speed, excellence, and passion.

The first “true Ferrari” to bear the prancing horse was the 1947 Ferrari Tipo 125S. With its refined logo, featuring a black horse on a yellow shield, Ferrari created a legacy in motorsport and luxury performance. Today, the prancing horse remains synonymous with Ferrari’s powerful presence on and off the track.