Born in
Modena, Martinelli studied
mechanical engineering at
Bologna University, graduating in 1978. He joined
Ferrari immediately, at first working on engine design for the company's production cars. In
1994, he was appointed head of the
Formula One team's Engine Department, where he decided to ditch the commitment to running
V12 engines in favour of
V10s. The first V10-powered Ferrari raced in
1996, and the team used this configuration to win five Drivers' and six Constructors' Championships before rules were brought in stipulating the use of
V8s for
2006. Martinelli's favorite race was the
2000 Japanese Grand Prix at
Suzuka which Michael Schumacher won in a Ferrari. In October 2006, Martinelli moved to an executive role within
Fiat, Ferrari's parent company. His position in Ferrari was taken over by
Gilles Simon. ==References==