History of the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Badge
Drivers who are familiar with Alfa Romeo vehicles might recognize the Quadrifoglio emblem, a green four-leaf clover over a white background. This iconic symbol has been placed on Alfa Romeo symbols for nearly a century, yet many drivers are unaware of its origins. Below, we’ve broken down the history of the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio badge, and why so many Alfa Romeo models feature it on their exteriors.
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History of the Alfa Romeo Badge
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa Romeo Giulia
The “Four Musketeers”
The history of the green clover badge can be traced back to 1923. At this time, the Alfa Romeo racing team consisted of four talented drivers that were often referred to as the “four musketeers” by the Italian press. These drivers included Ugo Sivocci, Antonio Ascari, Giuseppe Campari and Enzo Ferrari, who would go on to found the auto manufacturer of the same name.
A Symbol of Luck
The first appearance of the Quadrifoglio badge would be at the 1923 Targa Florio, a prestigious international racing event. Ugo Sivocci was scheduled to race in the event. If he won, it would be Alfa Romeo’s first major victory on the international racing circuit. In an attempt to invite good fortune to his vehicle, Sivocci painted the now-iconic four-leaf clover on to his vehicle. Sivocci would go on to win the 1923 Targa Florio, cementing his belief that the clover emblem was a good luck charm.
Tragic Loss
Unfortunately, Ugo Sivocci would only have a few months to celebrate and enjoy his achievement. A few months after his victory at the Targa Florio, Sivocci would lose his life while practicing for the upcoming 1st European Grand Prix. Despite his request, the car he drove that day did not include the green clover badge due to time constraints. From 1924 and onward, every Alfa Romeo racing vehicle was adorned with the Quadrifoglio badge – both to bring the driver good luck, and in remembrance of Sivocci.
Modern Usage of the Quadrifoglio Badge
The Quadrifoglio emblem is still used on modern Alfa Romeo vehicles. Every Alfa Romeo racing vehicle since the Sivocci incident has featured the badge. Starting in the 1960s, Alfa Romeo started to adorn their sportier street models with the badge to highlight their enhanced performance. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Giulia Quadrifoglio are the latest Alfa Romeo models to follow this trend.
Why Are Quadrifoglio Vehicles Unique?
The Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Giulia Quadrifoglio include more powerful engines and sportier features than their non-Quadrifoglio counterparts. Both Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio models come equipped with powerful V6 engines, decorated with the iconic clover emblem. These models were built to appeal to driving enthusiasts, and were heavily inspired by racing vehicles. Notable Quadrifoglio features include aluminum paddle shifters, carbon fibre detailing, and push-button ignition.
Learn More About Quadrifoglio Models
Interested in purchasing an Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio model in or near London, Ontario? Alfa Romeo of London can help you find what you’re looking for. Explore our current lineup of Quadrifoglio models using our intuitive online inventory. Interested in one of our models? Feel free to reach out to our team by calling us at (866) 549 – 2724 or by sending us a message through the Alfa Romeo of London website.