Motorsport and Fascism: Living Dangerously

This book explores the relationship between motorsport and Italian Fascism, arguing that it was able to bring together the two dominant cultural roots of Fascism, Futurism and Decadence, through a topical study of motorsport in the 1920s and 1930s.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 313 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the fascinating intersection of motorsport and Italian Fascism, presenting a groundbreaking exploration that reveals a unique synergy between these two powerful forces. Unlike other sports, motorsport was uniquely positioned to bring together the two dominant cultural roots of Fascism: Futurism, championed by F. T. Marinetti, and the decadent aesthetic associated with Gabriele DAnnunzio. Through a comprehensive topical study of motorsport in the 1920s and 1930s, the book intricately traces the cultural convergence that unfolded, placing it within the broader context of sport under Mussolini's regime.

The chapters within this compelling narrative delve into various aspects of this cultural fusion. They explore the central role of speed and death in Fascist culture, highlighting the fascist fascination with the exhilaration of high-speed racing and the symbolic significance of death in the pursuit of glory. The book also delves into the ambitious endeavor to transform Rome into a motorsport capital, showcasing the regime's commitment to promoting and celebrating this sport. The architectural and ideological significance of the Monza and Tripoli autodromes is examined, shedding light on how these venues became symbols of Fascist power and control. Additionally, two chapters are dedicated to examining the profound importance of the Mille Miglia, a truly fascist artifact that transcended the realm of motorsport and emerged as one of the most legendary motor races in history.

Through its meticulous research and insightful analysis, this book offers a profound understanding of the complex relationship between motorsport and Italian Fascism. It sheds light on the ways in which fascism embraced and appropriated the sport, using it as a tool to promote its ideology, consolidate power, and cultivate a sense of national identity. The book also challenges traditional narratives by demonstrating that motorsport was not merely a tool of the regime but rather a space where diverse cultural expressions converged, creating a vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of sport, politics, and culture. It provides a fresh perspective on the history of motorsport and Italian Fascism, challenging our understanding of these two powerful forces and illuminating the ways in which they intertwined to shape the cultural landscape of the 1920s and 1930s.

Weight: 435g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030979690
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022