From Bologna to the World: The Hundred-Year Story of the Most Legendary Badge in Motorsport

May 15, 2026 · 6 min read

Boardrooms design some symbols. Competition forges others, while speed, ambition, and the unrelenting pursuit of victory shape them. The Maserati Trident belongs firmly in the second category. One hundred years after it made its debut on the starting grid of the Targa Florio, the Trident remains one of the most recognized and revered emblems in the entire automotive world.

In 2026, we celebrate not just a logo, but a living legacy that has defined Italian excellence for a full century here at Jim Butler Maserati of St. Louis.

A Legend Born on April 25, 1926

The story begins in Sicily, at one of the most demanding road races ever contested. On April 25, 1926, Alfieri Maserati climbed behind the wheel of the Tipo 26 and drove it to first place in class and eighth overall at the Targa Florio. Maserati captured its first competitive victory in history while wearing a badge the world had never seen before.

The Trident made its official debut on that very car, on that very day. The Trident did more than simply decorate a vehicle. It was a declaration of intent from a brand that had been built from the ground up with one purpose in mind: to compete and to win. That first victory was the opening line of a racing story that would go on to fill volumes.

The Trident itself had begun taking shape a year earlier, in 1925, when Mario Maserati, the only artist among the Maserati brothers and the only one not directly involved in the automotive side of the business, created the first drawing of the emblem now preserved in the Maserati archives in Modena. His inspiration came from the Fountain of Neptune in Bologna, located just steps from the family's first workshop and a symbol deeply woven into the identity of the city.

A Racing Legacy Without Equal

What followed that first Targa Florio victory was one of the most extraordinary competitive histories any automotive brand has ever written. Maserati went on to claim back to back victories at the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940, a feat that announced the Trident's arrival on the global stage of motorsport. Four consecutive Targa Florio victories between 1937 and 1940 further cemented the brand's dominance on some of the most challenging roads in the world.

In Formula 1, Maserati collected nine race victories and the ultimate prize: the 1957 Formula 1 World Championship, claimed by the incomparable Juan Manuel Fangio behind the wheel of the legendary 250F. Decades later, the MC12 brought the Trident back to the winner's circle in GT competition, claiming six international FIA GT championships between 2005 and 2010. Since 2023, the Maserati GT2 has continued that tradition, eligible to compete in more than 20 championships around the world and reminding a new generation of motorsport fans exactly what the Trident stands for.

The Maserati Trident: An Evolution of an Icon

Over the course of a century, the Trident has evolved while always remaining unmistakably itself. The original badge that appeared on the Tipo 26 featured a rectangular design with a dark Trident on a light background. By the early 1930s, the brand had moved toward the oval shape that would become iconic, adopting the red and blue colors of the city of Bologna and establishing a visual identity that would remain largely stable for more than four decades.

In 1980, the company introduced a version featuring a gold background across the production lineup. A further redesign in 1997 marked a new chapter in the brand's evolution. The most recent and perhaps most significant transformation arrived with the launch of the MC20 in 2020, which inaugurated what Maserati calls the New Era.

The contemporary Trident is more refined and more dynamic than any previous version, with carefully considered proportions, rounded side arrows for greater visual continuity, and a palette reduced to white and the deep, lacquered Blu Maserati. The result is a symbol that honors its origins while looking unmistakably forward.

A Campaign Worthy of the Anniversary

To mark one hundred years of the Trident, Maserati has launched a campaign as bold and emotionally resonant as the legacy it celebrates. The centerpiece is a cinematic video that brings the brand's past and present into conversation through a carefully chosen cast of iconic vehicles. The Tipo 26, the Ghibli, and the MC12 represent the heritage that built the legend. The GranTurismo Trofeo, the Grecale Trofeo, and the MCXtrema carry that spirit forward into the present day.

The visual journey begins at the Targa Florio pit lane, where the historic cars set off before entering a new dimension where past meets future. From the dust of history, the contemporary models emerge across a vast salt desert, their tracks combining from above to trace the shape of a giant Trident.

The film blends three-dimensional animation and artificial intelligence to achieve a visual quality that matches the gravity of the occasion, accompanied by a specially composed soundtrack and closed with the line: "A Century of Stories, Signed with One Symbol."

Perhaps the most moving element of the campaign is its narrator. The campaign employs artificial intelligence to bring the voice of Maria Teresa De Filippis back to life. She was the first woman to qualify for and compete in a Formula 1 Grand Prix, doing so at the 1958 Belgian Grand Prix behind the wheel of a Maserati 250F. Her presence in the film is a tribute to one of the most remarkable chapters in the brand's history and a reminder that the Trident has always represented something larger than automotive achievement.

The Trident: A Stamp of Italian Excellence

Recognition of the Trident's cultural significance has come from the highest levels of Italian institutional life. The Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy recently dedicated an official postage stamp to the centenary of the Maserati logo, presented at a ceremony held at Palazzo Piacentini in Rome. The stamp's graphic design was created by Centro Stile Maserati and refined by the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato, placing the contemporary Trident in visual dialogue with its earliest iterations from 1926.

Distributed by Poste Italiane for everyday use and the collectors' market, the stamp is accompanied by a dedicated philatelic folder. It is a fitting tribute to a symbol that has represented Italian craftsmanship, performance, and elegance in more than 70 markets around the world for an entire century.

One Hundred Years Strong and Still Moving Forward

The Trident did not become a legend by standing still. It was carried forward by the hands of engineers and designers, by the courage of drivers who pushed it to its limits on the most demanding circuits in the world, and by the vision of a brand that has never stopped reaching for what comes next. In 2026, as Maserati also celebrates 112 years since its founding, the Trident stands as proof that true excellence does not diminish with time. It deepens.

For anyone who has ever felt the pull of the Trident, this centenary is more than a milestone. Join a story that continues to unfold today. At Jim Butler Maserati, that story is available to experience firsthand. Come in, get behind the wheel of the current lineup, and discover what one hundred years of Italian excellence feels like on the open road.

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Sep 29, 2026 in Maplewood Maserati Dealer

New Heart, Fresh Face, Greener Moves: Meet the 2027 Maserati Grecale

Maserati is giving its midsize luxury SUV a fresh dose of Italian attitude for 2027. The updated Maserati Grecale arrives with sharper styling, a more premium cabin, and new V6 powertrains. The result is a Grecale lineup with even more ways to experience supreme performance, luxury, technology, and unmistakable Italian design here at Jim Butler Maserati of St. Louis. Since its introduction, the Grecale has become an important part of the Mase rati lineup. For 2027, the brand builds on that foundation with updates that touch nearly every part of the SUV experience. From the exterior design to the cabin and powertrain lineup, the refreshed Grecale brings plenty of new reasons to take a closer look. A Sharper Grecale Makes a Strong First Impression The 2027 Grecale remains unmistakably Maserati, but its updated exterior brings a fresh interpretation of the brand's modern design language. The most noticeable changes are found up front. Maserati has redesigned the fascia with a more pronounced shark-nose profile, giving the Grecale a wider and more planted appearance. The updated bumper sits visually lower and wider, adding to the SUV's athletic stance. Maserati has also revised the front air curtains and lower aerodynamic elements. These changes help manage airflow around the wheels and underneath the vehicle while complementing the Grecale's sportier appearance. New wheel designs add another opportunity for personalization. The 2027 Grecale can be equipped with new 20-inch Asteria wheels or larger 21-inch Crono wheels. A new Grigio Lamiera Shiny exterior color is also available through Maserati's customizable Fuoriserie personalization program. Inside, Italian Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage The Grecale's cabin receives its own collection of thoughtful updates, with particular attention paid to the areas drivers interact with every day. One of the most distinctive changes is the newly designed steering wheel. Its octagonal shape and six o'clock spoke create a unique focal point for the driver's seat. Depending on the model, the steering wheel is finished in premium leather or Alcantara, with Alcantara standard on the performance-focused Trofeo. The center console also receives an updated PRND gear selector featuring illuminated metal buttons and capacitive haptic controls. A new digital clock adds another elegant detail to the dashboard, with its mineral crystal dial and metallic bezel echoing the shape of the steering wheel. As expected from Maserati, premium materials remain an important part of the Grecale experience. Real wood, carbon-fiber accents, premium leather, and soft-touch surfaces contribute to an environment that blends modern technology with traditional Italian craftsmanship. New V6 Muscle Joins the Maserati Family For performance enthusiasts, one of the biggest stories for 2027 is the arrival of a new 390-horsepower twin-turbo V6. Derived from Maserati's Nettuno engine family, the new V6 expands the Grecale's performance possibilities while giving drivers another way to experience the character of a Maserati powertrain. According to the source, the engine delivers 32% more torque at 2,000 rpm than the 2.0-liter I4 powertrain, contributing to stronger acceleration and responsive everyday performance. The new V6 is available in both the Grecale V6 and Modena V6, giving shoppers two new ways to bring six-cylinder performance into the Grecale lineup. At the top of the performance family sits the Grecale Trofeo V6. Its twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 produces 530 horsepower and incorporates Maserati's Formula 1-inspired pre-chamber combustion technology. The numbers tell the story. The Trofeo can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 177 mph. High-Tech Luxury Meets Everyday Comfort Technology remains a major part of the 2027 Grecale experience. The Maserati Intelligent Assistant, or MIA, uses a 12.3-inch Ultra-HD display for infotainment and connected features. Drivers can also equip the Grecale with a configurable head-up display and an available Sonus faber premium audio system capable of producing up to 1,285 watts through as many as 21 speakers. The Grecale also gives drivers multiple ways to personalize the driving experience. Available air suspension helps balance comfort and handling, while laminated acoustic glass helps create a quieter cabin environment. Multiple drive modes let drivers tailor the SUV's character to the road ahead. GT, Sport, and Off-Road modes are available, while the Trofeo adds Corsa mode for a more performance-focused experience. Five Grecale Models, Plenty of Ways to Go Italian The 2027 Maserati Grecale lineup expands to five distinct models, giving luxury SUV shoppers an impressive range of choices. The lineup includes the Grecale with a 250-horsepower mild-hybrid powertrain, the 330-horsepower Modena mild hybrid, the new 390-horsepower Grecale V6, the 390-horsepower Modena V6, and the 530-horsepower Trofeo V6. That range allows drivers to choose the Grecale experience that best matches their priorities. Mild-hybrid models emphasize efficiency and luxury. The new V6 models bring additional performance. The Trofeo delivers the lineup's ultimate combustion-engine performance. More Grecale. More Maserati. The updated 2027 Maserati Grecale demonstrates how an already distinctive luxury SUV can evolve while staying true to its Italian character. Sharper exterior styling, an upgraded cabin, new V6 performance, advanced technology, premium materials, and multiple drive modes give the latest Grecale plenty of personality. The expanded five-model lineup also makes it easier for luxury SUV shoppers to find a Grecale tailored to their preferred balance of performance, efficiency, comfort, and electrification. For drivers who care as much about how a vehicle feels as how it looks, the 2027 Maserati Grecale delivers. Compare the V6's raw character, get behind the wheel, and find the configuration built for the way you like to drive.

Sep 15, 2026 in Maplewood Maserati Dealer

Trident, Turbo, Trouble: The 621-HP MCPura Is Ready to Pounce

Some sports cars make an entrance. The 2027 Maserati MCPura makes a statement. At the heart of this unmistakably Italian performance machine is Maserati's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Nettuno V-6, producing an exhilarating 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. Add an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, advanced chassis engineering, and a design that looks every bit as dramatic as it performs, and the MCPura becomes a showcase of performance here at Jim Butler Maserati of St Louis. As the flagship sports car in the Maserati lineup, the MCPura represents the brand's passion for combining motorsport-inspired engineering with Italian craftsmanship. It is available as a sleek coupe or as the MCPura Cielo, a retractable hardtop convertible that brings open-air excitement to the experience. The Nettuno V-6 Brings the Heat The MCPura's 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 is more than a source of serious horsepower. It is a technological centerpiece. The engine produces 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, giving the MCPura the kind of performance expected from a true Maserati halo car. The V-6 features an innovative twin-combustion system inspired by Formula 1 technology, connecting the MCPura to Maserati's long history of developing performance-focused engineering. That power reaches the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The result is a powertrain designed to deliver rapid response while keeping the driver connected to the road. For enthusiasts, numbers such as 621 horsepower only tell part of the story. The character of the Nettuno V-6 is what makes the MCPura particularly special. Every element of the powertrain works together to create an experience that feels distinctly Maserati. Performance With Italian Character Raw horsepower is only one ingredient in a great sports car. The MCPura brings equally serious attention to handling, chassis balance, suspension tuning, and driver engagement. Its sharp handling gives the MCPura an athletic personality that shines on winding roads and performance-focused drives. Adaptive suspension technology also gives the chassis flexibility, allowing the vehicle to deliver a refined driving experience when the road calls for a more relaxed approach. That combination creates an appealing balance. The MCPura has the hardware and engineering to provide an exciting performance experience, while its sophisticated chassis helps make the car engaging across a variety of driving situations. For Maserati enthusiasts, that balance is part of the appeal. The MCPura is not simply about going fast. It is about making every mile memorable. A Coupe or Cielo? Take Your Pick The MCPura offers two distinctive ways to experience its performance. The coupe showcases Maserati's exotic proportions with a sleek roofline that emphasizes the car's low, athletic stance. Its silhouette is unmistakably designed for performance, with sculpted bodywork and details that reflect the MCPura's Italian heritage. For drivers who want to bring even more of the outside world into the experience, the MCPura Cielo features a retractable hardtop. At the touch of a button, the roof transforms the character of the car, creating an open-air driving experience without sacrificing the MCPura's dramatic presence. Both configurations provide a premium two-seat environment designed around the driver and passenger. Whether the preference is the purposeful elegance of the coupe or the open-air appeal of the Cielo, the MCPura delivers a distinctly Maserati interpretation of the exotic sports car. A Cabin Built Around the Driver Step through the MCPura's distinctive butterfly-style doors, and the interior continues the car's performance-focused personality. The cabin combines premium materials with a clean, driver-oriented layout. Leather seating with contrasting stitching, aluminum pedals, and carbon-fiber trim create an environment that feels appropriately special for Maserati's flagship sports car. A carbon-fiber-finished central tunnel houses important controls, including the prominent drive-mode selector. Rather than surrounding the driver with unnecessary distractions, the interior keeps attention focused on the road and the experience behind the wheel. The result is a cabin that blends modern technology with the handcrafted feel expected from an Italian exotic. Technology Meets the Trident Performance may be at the center of the MCPura experience, but modern connectivity remains an important part of the package. A 10.3-inch touchscreen provides access to the infotainment system, while a separate 10.3-inch digital gauge display keeps important driving information directly within the driver's view. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included for familiar smartphone connectivity. The Maserati Connect app adds another layer of convenience, allowing owners to access vehicle health and service information through compatible smartphones, smartwatches, and connected home assistants. Audio options include a standard six-speaker system, while an available 12-speaker Sonus Faber system brings an elevated listening experience to the cabin. MCPura Cielo: Let the Sky In The MCPura Cielo deserves special attention for the way its retractable hardtop changes the driving experience. With the roof closed, the Cielo maintains the sleek appearance and focused character of the MCPura. Open the roof, and the car takes on an entirely different personality as the sounds, scenery, and atmosphere of the road become part of the experience. For scenic weekend drives, winding roads, and memorable summer evenings, the Cielo adds another dimension to Maserati performance. It is an ideal example of how the MCPura combines engineering and emotion. The car is built around performance, but the experience extends far beyond acceleration and handling. The Maserati Flagship Is Ready to Perform The 2027 Maserati MCPura represents the kind of vehicle that makes the heart of a true enthusiast beat faster. With 621 horsepower from its twin-turbo Nettuno V-6, 538 lb-ft of torque, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, rear-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and a driver-focused cabin, the MCPura brings together the ingredients of a genuine Maserati performance flagship. Its appeal goes beyond specifications, too. The MCPura carries the unmistakable presence of an Italian exotic, blending dramatic styling, sophisticated technology, motorsport-inspired engineering, and the unmistakable Maserati Trident. For drivers who believe a sports car should deliver more than transportation, the MCPura offers something special. It turns every drive into an occasion and every twist of the road into an invitation to experience what Maserati performance is all about. Discover the 2027 Maserati MCPura The MCPura stands at the top of the Maserati sports-car range for a reason. From its 621-horsepower Nettuno V-6 to its beautifully crafted two-seat cabin and available Cielo retractable hardtop, every element is designed to create an unforgettable driving experience. For drivers in St. Louis ready to experience the next level of Italian performance, we invite you to discover the 2027 Maserati MCPura. Explore its 621-horsepower Nettuno V-6, striking design, advanced technology, and available Cielo configuration here. The Trident is waiting at Jim Butler Maserati of St. Louis.

Sep 02, 2026 in Maplewood Maserati Dealer

Fast, Refined, and Fantastico: The 2026 Maserati GranTurismo Is Italian Automotive Art

The 2026 Maserati GranTurismo brings classic Italian grand touring into a new era. Designed for drivers who appreciate exhilarating performance and sophisticated comfort, this four-seat luxury coupe combines a potent twin-turbocharged engine with elegant styling, advanced technology, and standard all-wheel drive here at Jim Butler Maserati of St. Louis. Under the hood, the GranTurismo features Maserati's 3.0-liter Nettuno V6. The standard GranTurismo delivers 483 horsepower, while the GranTurismo Trofeo turns up the performance with 542 horsepower. Both pair the engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Maserati's Q4 all-wheel-drive system. The result is a coupe designed to make long-distance driving feel just as special as a spirited run on an open stretch of pavement. The GranTurismo stays true to the grand touring tradition by blending serious performance with the comfort and refinement expected from a Maserati. Italian Style Meets Modern Muscle The 2026 GranTurismo makes a strong first impression from every angle. Its long hood, compact rear deck, low stance, and sculpted body create the unmistakable proportions of a classic front-engine Italian grand tourer. A broad grille gives the coupe a confident face, while sleek lighting elements add a modern touch. Muscular rear fenders emphasize the car's performance character without taking away from its elegant profile. Every curve contributes to the GranTurismo's distinctive road presence. The standard GranTurismo delivers a sophisticated appearance, while the Trofeo adds additional performance-inspired styling. Sharper exterior details, darker accents, and unique design touches give the Trofeo an even more athletic personality. For drivers who want something truly personal, Maserati's Fuoriserie personalization program opens the door to an impressive selection of exterior colors, interior materials, finishes, and other bespoke details. More Than a Pretty Face The GranTurismo's beauty is backed by substantial performance. The twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 gives the coupe the kind of power that makes every highway entrance, backroad curve, and open-road journey more engaging. The standard GranTurismo produces 483 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. Its performance credentials include a 0-to-60-mph time of approximately 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 188 mph. For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, the GranTurismo Trofeo increases output to 542 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The Trofeo can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 199 mph. An eight-speed ZF automatic transmission helps deliver smooth gear changes while keeping the engine ready when the road opens up. Standard Q4 all-wheel drive provides confident traction, making the GranTurismo an impressive performer across a wide range of driving conditions. A Grand Tourer at Heart The word " GranTurismo " carries a long automotive tradition, and the 2026 model embraces that heritage. This is a luxury performance coupe designed not only to go quickly, but also to make the journey enjoyable. The cabin provides seating for four in a 2+2 configuration. Up front, occupants are treated to supportive power-adjustable seats, premium materials, sophisticated digital displays, and an upscale atmosphere that feels appropriate for the Maserati badge. The interior blends Italian design with modern technology. Smartphone integration, navigation, premium audio, and digital controls help keep the cabin connected and convenient. Rear passengers have access to additional seating for shorter trips, giving the GranTurismo an extra layer of everyday versatility. The coupe also provides useful cargo room for the essentials needed during a weekend getaway. Luxury With a Performance Edge Step inside the 2026 GranTurismo, and the focus on craftsmanship becomes clear. Maserati offers a range of interior colors and materials that allow drivers to create a cabin with its own personality. The Trofeo brings additional performance-oriented details to the interior, complementing its more athletic exterior design. Across the lineup, the cabin maintains the sense of occasion expected from an Italian luxury grand tourer. For drivers who want open-air motoring, Maserati also offers the GranTurismo experience in convertible form with the GranCabrio. What's New for 2026? Maserati makes several notable updates to the GranTurismo lineup for 2026. The standard gasoline model now simply carries the GranTurismo name, replacing the previous Modena designation. A sports exhaust is now standard, adding another layer to the car's performance character and helping bring the sound of the Nettuno V6 into the driving experience. The 2026 model year also introduces the Meccanica Lirica package. This distinctive appearance package features gold-colored details, including the exhaust tips and badging, along with an elegant tan-and-burgundy interior combination. Maserati recommends pairing the package with exterior finishes such as Oro Lirico gold or Rosso Velluto dark red for a particularly striking presentation. Performance Numbers Worth Talking About The 2026 Maserati GranTurismo lineup gives shoppers two compelling ways to experience the Nettuno V6. Model Horsepower Torque 0-60 mph Top Speed GranTurismo 483 hp 442 lb-ft 3.7 sec. 188 mph GranTurismo Trofeo 542 hp 479 lb-ft 3.3 sec. 199 mph Both models feature the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 architecture, eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard Q4 all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined for both gasoline models. Built for the Long Haul The GranTurismo's substantial dimensions contribute to its grand-touring character. The coupe measures 195.2 inches long, 77.0 inches wide, and 53.3 inches tall, with a 115.3-inch wheelbase. That footprint gives the GranTurismo the presence expected from a flagship Italian coupe while creating room for a comfortable, beautifully appointed cabin. With seating for four and a useful cargo area, the GranTurismo offers a compelling combination of performance and practicality. It is equally at home making an entrance downtown or stretching its legs on an extended road trip. Confidence Comes Standard Every 2026 GranTurismo comes equipped with standard all-wheel drive, giving drivers a sophisticated traction system to complement the Nettuno V6. Maserati also backs the GranTurismo with a transferable four-year or 50,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty, along with 24/7 roadside assistance. That coverage adds another layer of confidence for drivers who plan to enjoy their Maserati on everything from daily drives to memorable road trips. Which GranTurismo Fits the Drive? The standard 2026 Maserati GranTurismo delivers an impressive balance of power, elegance, comfort, and technology. Its 483-horsepower Nettuno V6 provides plenty of performance while preserving the refined character expected from a grand tourer. The GranTurismo Trofeo takes the formula further with 542 horsepower and additional performance-focused equipment. Its sharper personality makes it an especially exciting choice for drivers who want to push the performance envelope. Either way, the 2026 GranTurismo delivers the essential ingredients of a modern Maserati: unmistakable Italian styling, exhilarating performance, luxurious appointments, and a driving experience designed to turn ordinary miles into something memorable. For luxury coupe shoppers considering models such as the BMW M8 Coupe, Lexus LC 500, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe, or Porsche 911, the GranTurismo brings its own unmistakable flavor to the segment. Its combination of grand-touring comfort, exotic design, all-wheel-drive capability, and Nettuno V6 power makes it a standout choice for drivers who believe a great car should be as exciting to look at as it is to drive. Experience the 2026 Maserati GranTurismo The 2026 Maserati GranTurismo is more than a luxury coupe. It is a modern interpretation of the Italian grand tourer, blending breathtaking design with serious performance and long-distance comfort. With the GranTurismo and GranTurismo Trofeo offering two distinct levels of performance, plus Maserati's extensive Fuoriserie personalization options, there is plenty of room to make the experience uniquely personal. For drivers ready to experience Italian performance and luxury firsthand, the 2026 Maserati GranTurismo deserves a place at the top of the list.