Andrea Moda Formula entered Formula One in the 1992 season, helmed by Italian shoe designer Andrea Sassetti. Despite Sassetti’s enthusiasm, the team’s entry was marred by financial and organizational missteps from the outset. The team, which used a modified Coloni C4B chassis, was promptly excluded from the season opener in South Africa due to unpaid entry fees. This rocky start foreshadowed a season of misfortune and underperformance.
Team Operations and Driver Issues
Throughout the season, Andrea Moda struggled with both logistics and personnel issues. Initial drivers Alex Caffi and Enrico Bertaggia were soon replaced by Roberto Moreno and Perry McCarthy. Moreno managed to get the car running briefly but failed to pre-qualify at most events, while McCarthy faced repeated Super Licence issues and team neglect. By the time the team reached the Monaco Grand Prix, Moreno managed to qualify but retired early due to engine failure.
Organizational Failures and Financial Troubles
The team’s disorganization was further highlighted by its inability to secure engines and crucial parts. At the Canadian Grand Prix, Andrea Moda lacked engines and relied on a borrowed motor from Brabham, only for Moreno to fail pre-qualification again. The team missed the French Grand Prix entirely due to logistical issues, and morale plummeted as sponsors withdrew, leaving Sassetti to foot the bill.
The Downfall and Expulsion
By late August, Andrea Moda was effectively at its end. Despite a temporary reprieve from pre-qualification requirements at the Belgian Grand Prix, both cars were the slowest on track, with neither qualifying for the race. The team’s troubles were compounded by Sassetti’s arrest for allegedly forging auto part invoices. On September 8, the FIA expelled Andrea Moda Formula from the championship for failing to meet the standards of Formula One.
Andrea Moda Formula’s brief and tumultuous presence in F1 remains a stark reminder of the challenges and rigor required to compete at the highest level of motorsport.
