Usually, cars are a rare sight on Corso Italia in Cortina d’Ampezzo – it is a pedestrian zone, after all. Except for the Coppa d’Oro weekend in summer, when the participating cars gather in Cortina’s main shopping street which is turned into a start and finish area for this occasion. And, since they are very special cars, visitors pour in as well.

The classic cars from all over Europe – British Jaguars, Italian Lancias or German Mercedes-Benz cars – attract not only loyal motorsport fans. Only cars built between 1919 and 1961, and, in a separate competition, cars built between 1962 and 1965, are admitted to the regularity rally. “This year we had four participants with cars that are the only ones of their kind left - worldwide,” says Alessandro Casali, president of the organising committee.

The race is not about speed, by the way. Not the fastest driver wins but the one who gets to each of the 62 checkpoints in as close to a predefined time as possible. “But don’t be fooled into thinking this is just for fun! It is a real competition,” says Casali.

The route leads the 80 participants in Coppa d’Oro over 509 kilometres and 13 passes. “The mountains, the views, the whole scenery – this route is simply outstanding, “ says Casali, “This race is an amazing ambassador for everything this region has to offer.”

Text: Matthias Köb // friendship.is
Photos: Ian Ehm // friendship.is