Behind iconic brands such as Ferrari, Maserati, Ducati and Lamborghini, there have been, and still are, influential women<\/strong>, capable of shaping business decisions, industrial visions and sporting trajectories.<\/p>\n Telling the stories of the women of Motor Valley means rediscovering a lesser-known yet fundamental part of this region.<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t The story of Maserati\u2019s founding is often told through the lens of the Maserati brothers. Less well known is the role played by the family environment and the women who supported the business during a complex period in history.<\/p>\n In family-run businesses in Emilia in the early 20th century, women managed administrative, organisational and logistical matters. This contribution is often overlooked, yet it was crucial to the company\u2019s stability and continuity.<\/p>\n Motor Valley also owes its origins to these solid family structures.<\/p>\n One of the most significant women in the history of Motor Valley is Laura Garello Ferrari<\/strong>, Enzo Ferrari\u2019s wife.<\/p>\n Following the death of her son Dino, Laura played a key role in the company\u2019s financial and corporate management. Her presence proved decisive during a delicate period for Scuderia Ferrari.<\/p>\n In a world dominated by charismatic figures and strong personalities, her influence was less visible, but by no means insignificant.<\/p>\n Born in Naples but with deep ties to Maserati, Maria Teresa De Filippis<\/strong> was the first woman to qualify for a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1958, driving a Maserati 250F.<\/p>\n Her journey is symbolic of Motor Valley: it demonstrates that talent and determination know no gender, even in an era when motorsport was almost exclusively male-dominated.<\/p>\n Her story remains a source of inspiration for younger generations to this day.<\/p>\n Today, Motor Valley is also a cutting-edge technology hub. More and more women are taking on key roles in:<\/p>\n \u2022 Mechanical engineering Companies such as Dallara, Pagani, Ducati and Lamborghini have technical and design teams where the number of women is steadily increasing.<\/p>\n These are no longer merely support roles, but professionals leading complex projects.<\/p>\n In the world of motorcycling, Ducati has helped to raise the profile of women in motorsport and sports management.<\/p>\n More and more women are taking part in competitions, working in technical teams or holding strategic roles in marketing and communications.<\/p>\n Over the years, the modern Motor Valley has thus evolved into an increasingly inclusive ecosystem.<\/p>\n The history of women in Motor Valley reflects a wider shift in Italian society.<\/p>\n Whereas in the past women\u2019s contributions were often hidden behind the scenes, today they are more visible and recognised. Universities and technical colleges in Emilia-Romagna are seeing a steady increase in the number of female students on STEM courses, covering mechanics, design and engineering.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/staging10.team99.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/foto-low.jpg\")
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\nAlfieri Maserati and his sisters: the family\u2019s quiet role<\/h3>\n
Laura Ferrari: balance and continuity<\/h3>\n
Maria Teresa De Filippis: the first woman in Formula 1<\/h3>\n
Women in engineering and contemporary design<\/h3>\n
\u2022 Composite materials research
\u2022 Automotive design
\u2022 Industrial management<\/p>\nDucati and women\u2019s motorsport<\/h3>\n
A cultural shift is underway<\/h3>\n
Motor Valley: a story still being written<\/h3>\n