Andrea Bertolini (born 6 September 1973 in Bologna, Italy) is an Italian professional racing driver who has competed primarily in grand touring (GT) and sports car racing. He is best known for his long‑term association with Lamborghini, for whom he has served both as a development test driver and a race driver in various international championships.
Early life and career
Bertolini began karting at a young age before progressing to single‑seater formula cars. He transitioned to GT racing in the late 1990s, initially competing in national and European series.
Major achievements
- FIA GT Championship (2004): Partnered with Riccardo Azzoli to win the GT1 class championship driving a Lamborghini Murciélago R‑GT for the Reiter Engineering team.
- 24 Hours of Spa (2005, 2006, 2011): Secured multiple overall and class victories, most notably a class win in 2011 with the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670‑4 Superleggera in the Blancpain Endurance Series.
- 24 Hours of Le Mans: Competed in several editions, including a class win in the LMP2 category in 2010.
- FIA GT1 World Championship (2010–2012): Won the inaugural GT1 World Championship title in 2010, driving a Lamborghini Murciélago GT3 for the Reiter Engineering squad.
- Lamborghini Squadra Corse Test Driver: Has contributed to the development of Lamborghini’s GT racing programmes, including the Huracán GT3 and the Aventador SVJ GT3.
Later career
From the mid‑2010s onward, Bertolini continued to race in endurance events such as the Blancpain GT Series, the Intercontinental GT Challenge, and the 24 Hours of Daytona, often piloting Lamborghini machinery. He has also taken on mentorship roles within the Lamborghini racing academy, supporting emerging drivers.
Personal life
Bertolini resides in Italy. Outside of motorsport, he has expressed interest in automotive engineering and motorsport education.
Legacy
Andrea Bertolini is regarded as one of the most successful Italian GT drivers of the early 21st century, notable for his contributions to Lamborghini’s prominence in international GT racing. His career spans over two decades of competition, development work, and driver mentorship.