STORY OF THE DAY: Ferrari’s Unraced American Challenger

On 24 September 1986, Michelle Alboreto tested Ferrari’s F1-637 at Fiorano. The car was conceived for American CART competition rather than Formula One, making the session an unusual exploration of a possible Ferrari programme centred on the Indianapolis 500. The project never progressed to a race entry.

The 637 appeared while Ferrari was disputing Formula One’s future technical direction and considering alternatives. Testing demonstrated that Maranello could produce a credible car for American oval and road-course racing, but strategic circumstances changed and the programme was set aside before direct competition could establish its potential.

Designed under Gustav Brunner, the 637 used a purpose-built 2.65-litre turbocharged V8 suited to CART regulations. Its chassis employed composite construction and followed the proportions required for American single-seater racing, distinguishing it clearly from Ferrari’s contemporary Formula One machinery.

Milan-born Alboreto was Ferrari’s leading Formula One driver and had challenged for the 1985 World Championship. His technical experience and measured feedback made him a logical choice to evaluate the unfamiliar car at Fiorano. The test connected a major Italian Grand Prix driver with one of Ferrari’s most intriguing unrealized racing projects.