she started her racing career in formula abarth series before moving up into formula three for 1985–86. an entry into formula 3000 in 1987 brought little success but the following year, amati improved her performances. she moved to japan for 1989 but still had no success. a move back to europe in 1990 saw better performances that continued into 1991. in 1992, amati became the fifth woman formula one driver when she signed for brabham.