1000 Miglia 2024: The Most Beautiful Race in the World

In 1955, Sir Stirling Moss set a record during the 1000 Miglia driving the Mercedes 300 SLR number 722, averaging 157.650 km/h and completing 1597 km in 10 hours, 7 minutes and 48 seconds. This milestone highlighted the race's increasing danger, leading to its discontinuation two years later. However, the legend of the 1000 Miglia endures, captivating people of all ages who celebrate the competitors' journey through Italy’s beautiful roads and villages.

Stirling Moss with British journalist Denis Jenkinson driving the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR number 722 at the 1955 1000 Miglia.

Dubbed by Enzo Ferrari as “the most beautiful race in the world,” the 1000 Miglia now runs as a regularity race, featuring only models that participated in the 24 editions held between 1927 and 1957. The 2024 edition spans five days. Starting from Brescia on Tuesday, June 11, the route heads to Turin for the first stage. The second day leads south through Acqui Terme to Genoa, continuing along the Tyrrhenian coast to Viareggio. The third stage targets Rome via Lucca, Viterbo and Ronciglione, ending on Via Veneto. On Friday, June 14, participants ascend through Orvieto, Siena, and the historic Futa and Raticosa passes, concluding in Bologna. The final day on Saturday, June 15, passes through Ferrara and Lake Garda, finishing with a parade on Viale Venezia in Brescia.

The 1000 Miglia has become a regularity race but remains an adventure every enthusiast dreams of joining.

Little sleep and many emotions characterize the 1000 Miglia, one of the last true automotive adventures, with over 400 cars competing this year. The lineup includes 50 Alfa Romeos, 31 Porsches, 27 Jaguars, 25 Mercedes-Benzes, 21 Ferraris and 17 Bugattis. It’s a unique event for classic car enthusiasts, whether they own an eligible vehicle or are spectators reliving the past.

The passage of cars through the charming Italian villages creates a magical atmosphere for the public.