From the heart of the Brussels Motor Show, Mousub Shashaa, Founder of ArabGT, conducted an exclusive and unusually candid interview with Santo Ficili, CEO of Alfa Romeo and Maserati, as part of a new episode of Business Chat.
This was not a conventional executive interview. Led by ArabGT’s founder himself, the discussion went beyond numbers and formal statements, offering a deeper look into Italian automotive DNA, the challenges facing Maserati, and the momentum carrying Alfa Romeo forward as both brands prepare for 2026.
Alfa Romeo Regains Momentum
Ficili spoke about Alfa Romeo with clear confidence. He described 2025 as a pivotal year, with global sales rising by 19%, a strong result in an industry facing constant pressure and transformation.
Growth extended well beyond Italy. Europe recorded solid gains, Asia-Pacific surged significantly, and the Middle East posted 20% growth, underscoring Alfa Romeo’s strong emotional appeal among enthusiasts in the region. For Ficili, these figures reflected more than volume — they signaled renewed relevance.
2026 Products Focus on Identity, Not Trends
When Mousub Shashaa shifted the conversation toward future products, Ficili emphasized that Alfa Romeo is refining its core rather than chasing every market trend.
The Tonale received its first facelift outside Italy, featuring updated exterior styling aligned with the brand’s design language and a more premium interior with Alcantara finishes. Both Giulia and Stelvio will remain in production until at least 2027, reinforcing continuity and confidence.
Most notably, Ficili confirmed the return of Quadrifoglio models, with order books reopening in early 2026 following strong demand from dealers and loyal customers. Special editions such as the Giulia Luna Rossa further highlight Alfa Romeo’s commitment to engineering-driven performance rather than marketing-led gestures.
Maserati Confronts Reality Head-On
Mousub Shashaa addressed Maserati’s recent challenges directly, including its reduced presence in certain markets. Ficili responded with notable transparency, acknowledging that 2025 was a year of correction.
He explained that recent meetings with Middle Eastern dealers, including discussions in Dubai, focused on redefining strategy and rebuilding confidence. While Maserati is currently absent from the large luxury sedan segment, the brand’s lineup remains strong, spanning from Grecale and GranTurismo to the upcoming MC Pura, positioned as the spiritual successor to the MC20.
Two Brands, Two Distinct Identities
Despite technical cooperation within the Stellantis group, Ficili stressed that Alfa Romeo and Maserati must remain clearly differentiated.
Alfa Romeo represents accessible premium sportiness, built around the driver. Maserati stands for true luxury and grand touring refinement. Shared platforms may exist behind the scenes, but personality, positioning, and emotional character are intentionally kept separate.
Technology Should Serve the Driver
As Mousub Shashaa raised concerns shared by many enthusiasts — the growing dominance of screens and electrification — Ficili’s response was firm. Environmental responsibility matters, he said, but everything still begins with the driver.
Maserati must always deliver comfort with power on demand, while Alfa Romeo must remain sharp, engaging, and driver-focused. Technology exists to enhance the experience, not replace the essence of Italian driving pleasure.
