Ferrari has long maintained an exclusive approach to its brand, selectively choosing who can purchase its high-end vehicles. Over the years, several public figures have reportedly been blacklisted from acquiring Ferraris, with the automaker citing concerns over brand image and unauthorised modifications.

The increasing popularity of Ferrari’s in-house customisation program has become a double-edged sword. While offering customers the ability to personalise their vehicles generates significant revenue, certain excessive or outlandish requests have raised concerns about the brand’s image. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna recently acknowledged the issue, stating that the company is now considering pre-defining acceptable colour combinations to ensure brand integrity.

Vigna revealed that while the classic Rosso Corsa remains a staple, only about 40% of buyers still opt for it. Many clients are now selecting unique colours through Ferrari’s customisation program in an effort to stand out. However, requests perceived as excessively “bling,” “strange,” or “garish”—as described in a report—are prompting Ferrari to reconsider its approach.

“We have been thinking internally about pre-defining the colour combinations,” Vigna stated. “We have to pay attention because we have to defend the values and identity of the brand. We will not make a strange car, for sure.”

While defining what constitutes a “strange” modification remains subjective, Ferrari has made clear that certain alterations—such as painting a car pink—are strictly prohibited. Despite these limitations, the customisation program has become a significant revenue stream for Ferrari, accounting for one-fifth of its total revenue in 2024 and contributing to a 21% increase in company profits.

However, Ferrari’s commitment to brand preservation extends beyond its in-house program. The company has been known to blacklist individuals who make unauthorised modifications or resell their cars too quickly. In some cases, Ferrari has even taken legal action against owners who altered their vehicles in ways deemed unacceptable.

Vigna has hinted at stricter policies moving forward, stating that Ferrari may blacklist buyers who push customisation beyond acceptable limits. He also expressed concerns about how heavily modified Ferraris affect resale value, as certain customisations may not appeal to secondary buyers, making the cars harder to sell.

Notable Figures Reportedly Blacklisted by Ferrari

• Justin Bieber: The pop star allegedly landed on Ferrari’s blacklist after wrapping his 458 Italia in a controversial blue chrome finish and failing to maintain it properly. Ferrari, known for its strict brand image policies, reportedly took issue with Bieber’s modifications and overall neglect of the vehicle.

• Deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman): The Canadian DJ customised his Ferrari 458 Italia with a Nyan Cat-inspired wrap and custom emblems, renaming it the “Purrari.” Ferrari responded with a cease-and-desist letter, prompting Deadmau5 to sell the car and publicly mock Ferrari on social media.

• 50 Cent (Curtis Jackson): The rapper claimed he was blacklisted after attempting to purchase multiple Ferraris at once. Ferrari has strict policies against resale flipping, and his bulk-buy attempt likely raised concerns about potential unauthorised resales.
• Kim Kardashian: The reality star reportedly fell out of favour with Ferrari after modifying her white Ferrari by painting it pink without approval. Ferrari’s policies prohibit unauthorised aesthetic changes that could impact the brand’s image.
• Floyd Mayweather: The undefeated boxer has been rumoured to be on Ferrari’s blacklist due to his habit of frequently purchasing and quickly reselling luxury cars for profit. Ferrari discourages such resale practices to maintain exclusivity and vehicle value.

Ferrari’s stringent approach to brand management reflects its commitment to maintaining the exclusivity and prestige of its vehicles. Prospective buyers often must meet strict criteria, including prior ownership of Ferraris, a clean driving record, and an agreement not to resell the vehicle within a specified period. Violating these terms or making modifications deemed excessive can result in being placed on Ferrari’s unofficial blacklist, barring future purchases.

As Ferrari continues to evolve, the company is likely to refine its policies further, ensuring that its cars remain symbols of status, performance, and uncompromising design integrity.