Italian Driver Breaks Speed Record on Aircraft Carrier
Civitavecchia, Italy – In a remarkable display of speed and precision, Italian driver Fabio Barone set a new world record for the fastest car on a boat on September 18, 2025. Racing across the flight deck of the Italian Navy aircraft carrier Nave Trieste, Barone achieved a staggering speed of 101.9 mph (164 km/h), surpassing his previous record of 94.4 mph set last year.
A Unique Challenge
Barone’s latest attempt took place in Civitavecchia, a port city located just north of Rome. The challenge was not just about speed; it involved navigating the complexities of a wet flight deck, which could significantly impact both acceleration and braking. Race engineer Alessandro Tedino expressed concerns about the conditions, noting that the crew had to dry the deck after the ship had spent the night at sea. “If it remained wet, then of course it’s impossible to have the maximum speed and best brakes. It can be very, very dangerous,” Tedino stated.
The Build-Up to the Record Attempt
As the iconic “Top Gun” theme played in the background, Barone’s team prepared for the record attempt. A group of children with Down syndrome, chosen as honorary mechanics for the day, helped unveil Barone’s vehicle: a striking red-and-black Ferrari SF90. This supercar, boasting a powerful V-8 turbo engine, was the perfect choice for such a high-stakes endeavor.
Barone took several warm-up laps along the 774-foot flight deck, gradually pushing the car’s 1,085 horsepower to its limits. The atmosphere was electric, with journalists, naval officers, and VIPs gathered to witness the event.
The Record-Breaking Moment
With the crowd on edge, Barone positioned himself at the far end of the flight deck, awaiting the signal to go. As he accelerated, the announcer’s voice rang out, “Here he goes! Here he goes!” Within seconds, Barone zipped past the spectators and came to a halt, leaving everyone in suspense about whether he had broken the record.
The official timekeeper approached the Ferrari, inspecting the gauges before announcing, “The detected velocity: 164 kilometers per hour (101.9 mph). I declare it the new speed record on a ship!” The crowd erupted in applause, celebrating Barone’s achievement.
Reflections on the Experience
After the exhilarating run, Barone raised his arms in triumph and embraced his team. In an interview, he reflected on the mental focus required for such a feat. “The main thing you focus on is concentration, and then you realize that you are breaking the record only when you are halfway,” he explained. “I have two hands, two feet, and I use them at the same time like a pianist.”
Next Steps for Barone
Following the successful attempt, Tedino announced that the team would submit their certified results to Guinness World Records. The organization expressed enthusiasm about reviewing the application and supporting evidence for Barone’s latest achievement.
Historical Context
This record attempt is part of a growing trend of extreme speed challenges that have captivated audiences worldwide. The concept of racing on unconventional surfaces, such as aircraft carriers, has gained popularity in recent years, showcasing not only the capabilities of modern vehicles but also the skill of the drivers behind the wheel.
Barone’s previous record of 94.4 mph was set on another aircraft carrier in southern Italy, highlighting his dedication to pushing the boundaries of speed. The combination of advanced automotive technology and the unique environment of a naval vessel creates a thrilling spectacle that draws attention from both motorsport enthusiasts and the general public.
Conclusion
Fabio Barone’s record-breaking run on the Nave Trieste is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of speed. As he prepares to submit his achievement for official recognition, the event serves as a reminder of the extraordinary feats that can be accomplished when passion meets precision. With the world watching, Barone has not only set a new benchmark but has also inspired a new generation of speed enthusiasts to dream big and push the limits of what is possible.
