Held from 2 to 4 October at the Mugello circuit, the Gran Premio Storico d’Italia will pay tribute to the most glorious decade in Ferrari’s Formula 1 history, from 1996 to 2006. Nine cars from that era will take to the track in the hands of drivers who played a part in the Scuderia’s extraordinary success.

SCUDERIA FERRARI – GOLDEN AGE : 1996-2006

As the only team to have competed in every Formula 1 season since the World Championship was inaugurated in 1950, Scuderia Ferrari has enjoyed several successful eras, but none matched the achievements of the 1996-2006 period. During this extraordinary decade, the Scuderia secured six Constructors’ World Championships, 87 Grand Prix victories and 203 podium finishes. 

It remains closely associated with the legendary Dream Team of Jean Todt, Ross Brawn, Rory Byrne and Michael Schumacher, who claimed five Drivers’ World Championships at the wheel of the red cars. This golden chapter in Ferrari’s history will be celebrated at the inaugural Gran Premio Storico d’Italia, which takes place at the Mugello Circuit from 2 to 4 October.

Organised by HVM Racing and the Mugello circuit, in collaboration with Ferrari, the event will bring together nine cars designed in Maranello between 1996 and 2006, from the F310 to the 248 F1. Visitors will be able to appreciate the scale of the technical developments that shaped this legendary lineage, from the transition from the 3.0-litre naturally aspirated V10 to the 2.4-litre V8 and the introduction of grooved tyres, to the growing use of aerodynamic appendages such as bargeboards, turning vanes, cooling chimneys and even the short-lived “penguin wings”.

LEGENDARY DRIVERS

These cars will take to the track as part of the “Golden Age 1996-2006” parades, driven by iconic figures from Ferrari’s racing history, including René Arnoux, Gerhard Berger, Giancarlo Fisichella, Eddie Irvine, Mika Salo and others whose identities will be revealed soon via the event’s Instagram and Facebook accounts.

René Arnoux competed in 149 Formula 1 Grand Prix between 1978 and 1989, claiming seven victories and 22 podium finishes. Rising to prominence with Renault, where he secured his first Grand Prix wins, the Frenchman joined Ferrari in 1983 and enjoyed his finest season by finishing third in the World Championship. That same year, he also helped Scuderia Ferrari secure the Constructors’ title with three victories. Arnoux also remains famous for his memorable duel with Gilles Villeneuve during the 1979 French Grand Prix at Dijon-Prenois, widely regarded as one of the greatest battles in Formula 1 history.

Luca Badoer contested 49 Formula 1 Grand Prix with Scuderia Italia, Minardi and Forti. During his long tenure as Scuderia Ferrari’s official test driver, the Italian played a crucial role in the development of the cars that enabled Ferrari to dominate the sport during the Schumacher era. In 2009, at the age of 38, he made an unexpected return to racing, contesting two Grand Prix for Ferrari as a replacement for the injured Felipe Massa.

Gerhard Berger competed in 210 Formula 1 Grand Prix between 1984 and 1997, claiming ten victories and 48 podium finishes. The Austrian raced for Ferrari during two separate spells, from 1987 to 1989 and again from 1993 to 1995 and finished third in the World Championship on two occasions. Renowned for his talent, bravery and sense of humour, Berger was also Ayrton Senna’s team-mate and one of his closest friends at McLaren. A race winner with Benetton, Ferrari and McLaren, he remains one of the most popular drivers of his generation and one of the finest never to have won the World Championship title.

Andrea Bertolini is one of Ferrari’s most loyal representatives in endurance racing. Having become one of the marque’s youngest sports car test drivers at just 19 years old, he later joined Ferrari’s Corse Clienti and Maserati department before being called up in 2004 as an official test driver for Scuderia Ferrari’s Formula 1 team, during the Schumacher era. He played a key role in the development of the formidable Maserati MC12, based on the Ferrari Enzo. A benchmark driver in GT racing, he won the FIA GT Championship three times (2006, 2008 and 2009), before claiming the FIA GT1 World Championship in 2010 and victory in the GTE Am class at the 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Giancarlo Fisichella competed in 229 Formula 1 Grand Prix during his career, securing three victories with Jordan in 2003 and Renault in 2005 and 2006. In 2009, the Italian made Force India history by delivering the team’s first pole position and first podium finish at the Belgian Grand Prix. This performance earned him a place at Ferrari for the final five races of the season, where he replaced the injured Felipe Massa. After Formula 1, Fisichella enjoyed further success in endurance and GT racing, notably winning the LM GTE Pro category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice, in 2012 and 2014, behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458 GT2/GTE.

Antonio Giovinazzi competed in 62 Formula 1 Grand Prix between 2017 and 2021, including three full seasons with Alfa Romeo Racing. The Italian served as a reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari before turning his focus to endurance racing. In 2023, he made history by winning the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the Ferrari 499P alongside James Calado and Alessandro Pier Guidi, giving the Maranello marque victory on its return to the top class of the race after a 50-year absence.

Eddie Irvine was Michael Schumacher’s first team-mate at Ferrari, from 1996 to 1999. His final season with the Scuderia would prove to be the most successful of his career: the Irishman claimed all four of his Formula 1 victories that year and led the championship until the final round at Suzuka, Japan. He was ultimately beaten by Mika Häkkinen and his McLaren. Competing in Formula 1 from 1993 to 2002, Irvine stood on the podium 26 times while racing for Jordan, Ferrari and Jaguar.

Nicola Larini joined Ferrari as a test driver in 1992 and contested two Grand Prix for the Scuderia that same year. Tasked with developing the active suspension system, the Italian was called upon to replace the injured Jean Alesi for two races, including the tragic San Marino Grand Prix, which he finished in an impressive second place. His greatest competitive success, however, came in touring cars, where he won the Italian Championship in 1992 before claiming the highly competitive DTM title in 1993 at the wheel of the legendary Alfa Romeo 155 V6 TI.

Mika Salo competed in 110 Formula 1 Grand Prix, including six appearances for Ferrari in 1999 when he replaced Michael Schumacher following the German’s injury at the British Grand Prix. The Finn performed the role superbly, securing two podium finishes and famously yielding victory to team-mate Eddie Irvine in Germany when the win appeared to be his. After his Formula 1 career, Mika Salo continued his association with Ferrari in endurance racing, notably winning the GT2 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2008 and 2009.

250 CARS IN COMPETITION, INCLUDING 100 FORMULA 1

Beyond the Formula 1 demonstrations, the weekend will feature a packed programme of 18 races across eight grids.

Historic Grand Prix Car Association (HGPCA)

Pre-1966 Formula 1 

This grid takes spectators back to the first golden age of Formula 1, when single-seaters, still free from sponsor branding, proudly carried the national colours of the countries they represented. These years were defined by fierce rivalries and major technical innovations, notably the arrival of the rear-engine layout and, later, the elegant 1.5-litre Formula 1 cars raced between 1961 and 1965.

Masters Racing Legends

Formula 1 from 1966 to 1985 

The grid brings together Formula 1 cars built during the most diverse and innovative engineering era in the history of the sport. From the “cigar-shaped” machines of the mid-1960s to flat-bottomed cars and the formidable ground-effect designs, the appearance of these single-seaters never fails to surprise.

BOSS GP

Formula 1, IndyCar, World Series 3.5 from 1990 to 2020 

This grid features cars built to the regulations of the leading single-seater categories of recent decades, including Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3000, GP2, World Series by Renault 3.5, A1GP, IndyCar and even the exotic Formula Nippon. Formula 1 cars regularly seen on track include the 2006 Toro Rosso STR1, the 2003 Williams FW25, the 1997 Benetton B197, the 1999 Prost AP02 and the 2010 Lotus T127.

F2 Classic Interseries

Formula 2 from 1967 to 1978

The Formula 1 feeder series of the 1960s and 1970s was not a one-make category, but an open championship in which the finest specialist constructors competed against one another: Brabham, Chevron, Lola, March, Martini and many others. Powered first by 1.6-litre engines and later by 2.0-litre units, these lightweight 500 kg single-seaters provided the proving ground for future stars such as Jacky Ickx, Jean-Pierre Beltoise, Jean-Pierre Jabouille and René Arnoux.

F3 Classic Interseries

Formula 3 from 1971 to 1984 

Young hopefuls racing in Formula 3 during the 1970s and 1980s all dreamed of winning at Monaco under the watchful eye of Formula 1 team managers. The unofficial rule was that the winner would move straight into Formula 1 the following year, bypassing Formula 2 altogether. Past winners include Patrick Depailler, Jacques Laffite, Didier Pironi and Alain Prost. The cars are Martini, Chevron, March and Ralt chassis, all restored in their original liveries.

Historic F3 1000cc & F. Ford

Formula Ford and Formula 3 from 1964 to 1970 

No fewer than 1,000 of these single-seaters were built during the 1960s by manufacturers such as Brabham, Lotus, Chevron, March, Ensign, Matra, Merlyn, Titan and Tecno. Powered by compact 1,000 cc engines, they quickly earned the nickname "Screamers", a fitting tribute to the distinctive sound they produced as they revved to 10,000 rpm. The category became a genuine launchpad for future motorsport legends, including Jackie Stewart, James Hunt, Niki Lauda and Emerson Fittipaldi.

Historic Formula Junior : Lurani Trophy

Formula Junior from 1958 to 1963 

In 1958, Italian Count Johnny Lurani created a junior formula based on inexpensive mechanical components taken from production cars. Just three years later, races were being held every weekend across all five continents, and the category had become the direct stepping stone to Formula 1, helping launch the careers of drivers such as Jim Clark, John Surtees, Denny Hulme and Jochen Rindt. While Italian marques dominated the inaugural season, they were soon overtaken by British constructors.

Master Endurance Legends 1 & 2

Prototypes and GT cars from 1995 to 2019 

The series brings together some of the most beloved racing cars among Millennials and Generation Z. And for good reason: they have all driven them on simulators ! 

As at Le Mans, the cars run by day and by night on Saturday evening. As at Le Mans, prototypes and GT cars share the track. The fastest are the LMP1 machines (Lola, Peugeot, Pescarolo, Zytek), but knowledgeable enthusiasts always keep an eye on the battles in the GT ranks (Aston Martin Vantage, Bentley Continental, Ferrari 458, BMW Z4).

EXPERIENCE : GRANDSTANDS & PADDOCK

The public will have unique opportunities to get up close to the cars that have made motorsport history. With a standard admission ticket, all spectators will have a grandstand seat and access to several other areas of the circuit.

Tickets providing access to the paddock will also be available. Ticket holders will be able to enjoy exclusive experiences within the exceptional “Scuderia Ferrari – Golden Age: 1996–2006” exhibition, which will bring together nine iconic single-seaters from this legendary decade, from the F310 to the 248 F1, alongside the 1995 Ferrari 412 T2, the last Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 car powered by a V12 engine. Meet-and-greet sessions and autograph signings with attending Ferrari drivers will also be organised. The Fan Zone will feature Formula 1 simulators, a giant screen broadcasting the action live, an exhibitors’ village dedicated to the automotive world and a food court.

Finally, VIP ticket holders will enjoy an enhanced experience, including access to the Drivers’ Club and Premium Hospitality services, as well as the opportunity to take part in Grid Walks and guided paddock tours. Tickets will be available as either three-day passes (Friday to Sunday) or single-day tickets. Access to the Formula 1 and Formula 2 Grid Walk can be purchased separately.

Further information is available on the granpremiostorico.com and mugellocircuit.com websites.

STATEMENTS

Laurent Vallery-Masson, CEO of HVM Racing : « Bringing the Gran Premio Storico d’Italia to life represents far more than the creation of a new event for HVM Racing. It is an ambition to revive, at Mugello, the full richness of automotive heritage, with a particular focus on the legacy of the Scuderia Ferrari. 

Together with the Mugello Circuit, in collaboration with Ferrari and under the auspices of the ACI, we aim to establish a must-attend international event. More than 250 cars, including around one hundred Formula 1 cars, will retrace over half a century of history, with a special tribute to the 1996–2006 period, one of the Scuderia’s most glorious eras.

For HVM Racing, this project marks a new milestone : bringing the experience gained through more than one hundred events to an international audience. »

Antonello Coletta, Global Head of Ferrari Endurance and Corse Clienti : « The Gran Premio Storico d’Italia represents a unique and invaluable opportunity to celebrate and experience the rich heritage of motor racing, a sporting tradition that has inspired and captivated millions of enthusiasts around the world. 

The decision to establish the Mugello International Circuit as the Italian home of this prestigious event is, in my view, a significant accomplishment for our country and for the preservation of our sporting heritage. I am particularly proud that Italian fans will have the opportunity to enjoy such an extraordinary celebration of motorsport history, made even more meaningful by the tribute to the decade that saw Scuderia Ferrari and Michael Schumacher rise to prominence together, forging a partnership that became a benchmark of excellence and a symbol of success throughout the sporting world. »

Paolo Poli, CEO & Managing Director of Mugello Circuit : « It is an honour to host the first edition of the Gran Premio Storico d’Italia at Mugello Circuit. The fact that we have been chosen to host this prestigious event confirms the importance of our facility on an international scale. Owned by Ferrari since 1988, the 5.245 km Tuscan track played a crucial role in developing the Prancing Horse's single-seaters as testing ground during the years of Michael Schumacher, Eddie Irvine, Rubens Barrichello, and Felipe Massa. Today, the Mugello Circuit still hosts Formula 1 testing sessions, alongside national and international car races. The Tuscan track is the perfect location to pay tribute to this heritage within an innovative infrastructure. »

Geronimo La Russa, President of the Automobile Club of Italy : « With the first edition of the Gran Premio Storico d’Italia, we are celebrating the most precious heritage of our motorsport : its history. Bringing these cars to Mugello, with a strong focus on Formula 1, means bringing the living memory of motor racing back to life on track. And, moreover, it is a celebration of a legendary decade for Ferrari, from 1996 to 2006, marked by victories and Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles. Hearing the sound of those iconic single-seaters again will be a unique emotion. I would like to thank Ferrari for its important contribution to an event that brings together sport, passion and culture. »

The first ACI Racing Weekend of the season at Mugello Circuit has come to an end, a weekend that delivered excitement, overtaking and dramatic twists across every category. The final day began with a track made treacherous by the rain that fell during the early hours of the morning, forcing teams and drivers into strategic decisions right from the opening stages.

The Formula 4 drivers from Groups A and C were the first to take to the track. After several reconnaissance laps on the wet surface, most competitors opted to switch to slick tyres before lining up on the grid. The race got underway behind the Safety Car, which remained on track for several laps. Once racing resumed, there was no shortage of incidents: Ginevra Panzeri and Elia Weiss were forced to retire in the opening stages, with the German driver once again enduring an unfortunate weekend. Zheng, Busso and Florescu also dropped out later in the race. At the end of an intense contest, Andy Consani claimed a well-deserved victory ahead of Bader Al Sulaiti and Oleksandr Bondarev. Among the female drivers, Emma Felbermayr once again came out on top.

The TCR Italy race also started behind the Safety Car, and problems arose even before the start: Barberini's Cupra remained stationary on the grid. The driver managed to rejoin from the pit lane, but technical issues eventually forced him to retire, although he still managed to set the fastest lap of the race. Simonov celebrated a magnificent double on his debut in the Italian championship, while Pellegrini finished second, looking increasingly comfortable behind the wheel of the Honda, with Matteo Poloni completing the podium. In the DSG classification, Miotto took victory ahead of Verrocchio and Fantilli.

The second race of the Italian Sport Prototypes Championship was chaotic and packed with incidents. At the start, Laghezza was involved in a double contact: first with Castillo, then with Verdi, who crashed heavily into the barriers. A few laps later, another collision between Laghezza and Castillo caused a further accident, resulting in an inevitable black flag for the driver. Dell'Edera emerged victorious after an extraordinary comeback, finishing ahead of Beszterda and Rad.

In the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint Championship, GT3 Race 2 was won by the Klingmann-De Wilde pairing for BMW Italia Ceccato Racing aboard the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, following a perfectly managed race. Levet-Paverud secured an excellent second place with the VSR Lamborghini Huracán, while the Huracán of Segù-Perera completed the podium.

There was plenty of excitement in the GT Cup as well, where the fifty-minute race featured a continuous battle for victory, with strategies, penalties and numerous twists throughout. The retirement of Ghermandi-Piria as early as the fourth lap changed the balance of the race, while Stefani-Locanto did not take the start and technical problems also affected Levy-Villars and Mariani-Pierantoni. When the lights went out, Simone Iaquinta made a brilliant start to immediately take the lead, but mandatory pit stops and penalties reshuffled the order several times. In the end, Frassineti-Pegoraro came out on top ahead of Croccolino-Paniccià and cousins Giacomo and Matteo Pollini.

During the prize-giving ceremony, Luca Maria Attianese and Paul Mejer of Apex Competition were also crowned 2026 Italian Champions in the Pro-Am Second Division.

The final Formula 4 race of the weekend, the Final, provided even more excitement. Safety Cars once again played a key role, but after the restart Craigie built his victory with a superb move around the outside of San Donato to overtake Maccagnani. The R-Ace GP driver then maintained his lead all the way to the chequered flag, finishing ahead of Sammalisto and Maccagnani.

The GT4 Italy Series brought the weekend to a close and, after Saturday's thrilling race, delivered another contest full of battles. In the opening stint, Fontana in the Porsche and Sandrucci in the BMW fought intensely until the driver change window. During the second half of the race, Maman, driving the BMW, launched a relentless chase of Arfini's Porsche. Also impressive was the performance of Palazzo and Aiva Anagnostiadis aboard the Promodrive BMW M4. In the AM class, the battle between Ceresoli-Anastasopulos and Wagner-Trentin remained alive until the closing laps, when the latter began to struggle with tyre degradation.

At the chequered flag, victory in the Pro-Am class went to Maman-Sandrucci ahead of Fontana-Arfini and Palazzo-Anagnostiadis. In the AM class, Ceresoli-Anastasopulos claimed the win, with Wagner-Trentin finishing second, while Bastos-Carvalho Ebrahim took victory in the Pro-Am Second Division.

The first ACI Racing Weekend of the season comes to an end as one to remember: 155 cars on the grid, more than 300 drivers on track and a weekend that once again confirmed Mugello Circuit as one of the most spectacular venues in Italian motorsport.

Saturday delivered plenty of action on track, with an exciting schedule that got underway with the two qualifying sessions for the Italian GT Championship GT3 class. They were followed by the GT Cup, GT4 Italy Series, Formula 4 and the other categories competing throughout the weekend.

In the opening GT3 race, Riccitelli and Dimitrov, representing Team VSR, claimed victory aboard their Lamborghini Huracán after setting the pace from the very beginning.

The GT Cup saw a dominant performance from the Best Lap pairing of Comandini and Postiglione. Driving the Ferrari 296 Challenge, the duo secured their first victory of the season, collecting valuable championship points that put them back into title contention.

Meanwhile, the GT4 Italy Series was dominated by the Casals Motorsport BMW M4 GT4. Maman laid the foundations for victory with an outstanding opening stint before handing over to teammate Sandrucci, who comfortably brought the car home in first place.

Formula 4 also produced plenty of excitement. In Race 1, Maccagnani emerged victorious after making a superb start that allowed him to get the better of his teammate Cosma Cristo into the opening corners. Behind them, Kenzo Craigie capitalised on the battle ahead to finish second, with Luka Sammalisto completing the podium.

There was no shortage of drama among the prototypes either, as Dell'Edera and Verdi renewed their now familiar rivalry. Dell'Edera initially overtook Verdi at Casanova by running slightly onto the grass, prompting Race Control to order him to give the position back. The decision ultimately made little difference, however, as Dell'Edera reclaimed the lead a few laps later and never looked back, taking the chequered flag ahead of Verdi and Locatelli.

The TCR Italy race was equally competitive. Pole-sitter Cosimo Barberini made a less-than-perfect getaway, allowing Simonov to seize the opportunity and take control of the race before going on to claim victory. Barberini finished second, limiting the damage in the championship standings, while Pellegrini rounded out the overall podium.

In the DSG class, victory went to Miotto, who crossed the finish line ahead of Verrocchio and Camidlag after another closely contested race.

GT3, GT Cup and GT4 Italy Series returned to the track for the second free practice session. Here are the fastest lap times from the three categories.

Friday's action in the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint Championship continued at Mugello Circuit with the second free practice session of the third round of the season for the GT3, GT Cup and GT4 Italy Series classes. Following the first indications from the morning session, teams used the afternoon outing to further fine-tune their cars ahead of Saturday's qualifying, confirming the highly competitive nature of all three categories.

GT3

The second session of the premier class was topped by Cazzaniga-MacDonald (McLaren 720S GT3 Evo – Raptor Engineering), who posted a best lap of 1:48.413, finishing 0.112 seconds ahead of Forgione-Rugolo (Ferrari 296 GT3 – Spirit of Racing) and 0.185 seconds clear of De La Iglesia-Denes (Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2 – Imperiale Racing).

Fourth and fifth fastest were Fontana-Gai (Ferrari 296 GT3 – Spirit of Racing) with a 1:48.854 and Guy Albag(Mercedes-AMG GT3 – Antonelli Motorsport) in 1:48.983, followed by Pulcini-Stalidzane (Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2 – Oregon Team) in 1:49.070 and Fischbaum-Pavlovic, driving the sister Star Performance Lamborghini, in 1:49.071.

The top ten was completed by Levi-Mazzola (Audi R8 LMS GT3 – Tresor Attempto Racing) in 1:49.238, Malvestiti-Guirreri (Mercedes-AMG GT3 – Antonelli Motorsport) in 1:49.244, and Mathias Villadsen (BMW M4 GT3 Evo – Spirit Racing), who ended the session with a 1:49.252.

GT Cup

The fastest pairing in the second free practice session was Croccolino-Paniccià (Ferrari 296 Challenge – MRNC12), who set the benchmark at 1:50.415, edging Galli-Iaquinta (Ferrari 296 Challenge – Krypton by DL Racing) by just 0.097 seconds. Third overall, and fastest in the PRO-AM First Division, were Alessi-Lancellotti (Lamborghini Huracán ST Evo 2 – SF Squadra Corse), 0.416 seconds off the pace.

Fourth and fifth went to Megna-Di Fabio (Ferrari 296 Challenge – Spirit of Racing) with 1:50.964 and Frassineti-Pegoraro (Ferrari 296 Challenge – Best Lap) in 1:51.055, ahead of the two Zanasi Racing Ferrari 296 Challenge entries of Sartori-Simonini (1:51.082) and Fontana-Lovati (1:51.203).

Completing the top ten were Arduini-Bartoszuk (Lamborghini Huracán ST Evo 2 – MM Motorsport) in 1:51.686, Borelli-Mendez (Ferrari 296 Challenge – Spirit of Racing) with 1:51.862, and Ghermandi-Piria (Ferrari 296 Challenge – Zanasi Racing), second in the AM class, in 1:51.915.

In the Second Division PRO-AM, the fastest lap was recorded by Laurini-Stefanin (Porsche 992 GT3 Cup – BiRace Motorsport) in 1:53.078, while Di Leo-'Poppy' (Porsche 992 GT3 Cup – MEGA Motorsport) topped the Second Division AM class with a 1:53.708.

GT4 Italy Series

The fastest time in the second free practice session came from Fontana-Arfini (Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 – Centri Porsche Ticino), who stopped the clock at 1:57.564, finishing 0.755 seconds ahead of Bastos-Ebrahim (Aston Martin Vantage V8 – Gino Scuderia) and 0.791 seconds ahead of Palazzo-Anagnostiadis (BMW M4 GT4 Evo – Promodrive).

Fourth and fifth quickest were Gavazza-Esposito (BMW M4 GT4 Evo – Casals Motorsport) in 1:58.371 and championship leaders Maman-Sandrucci (BMW M4 GT4 Evo – Casals Motorsport) with 1:58.430.

Behind Gnemmi-Happacher (Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 – Centri Porsche Ticino), sixth in 1:58.712, came Zanin-Bencivenni (Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 – MEF Motorsport) in 1:59.226, Lasagni-Ziccardi (Mercedes-AMG GT4 – CZ Bassano) in 1:59.407, Kornelia Olkucka (Mercedes-AMG GT4 – LEMA Racing) in 2:00.562, and Dolischka-Massa(Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 – Centri Porsche Ticino), tenth with 2:00.629.

In the GT4 AM class, the fastest crew was Balzarotti-Cristoni (Alpine A110 GT4 – Tuder Motorsport), who finished eleventh overall with a best lap of 2:00.790.

The weekend schedule moves into its decisive phase on Saturday, 25 July, with the official qualifying sessions for GT3, GT Cup and GT4 Italy Series taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m., setting the grids for the six races scheduled over the weekend.

The first races will get underway in the afternoon, all contested over 50 minutes plus one lap. GT3 Race 1 starts at 1:45 p.m., followed by GT Cup Race 1 at 3:55 p.m. and GT4 Italy Series Race 1 at 6:05 p.m.

All races will be broadcast live on ACI Sport TV (Sky Channel 228), with live streaming available on the ACI Sport website and across the federation's official social media channels.

It was a busy day on track, primarily dedicated to free practice sessions ahead of qualifying. All categories took to the circuit from the early hours of the morning, with no fewer than 155 cars hitting the track as soon as the first green light was shown.

Weather conditions proved to be ideal, with comfortable temperatures for both the drivers inside the cockpit and the track surface, allowing teams to work under optimal conditions.

The afternoon marked the start of the first qualifying sessions of the weekend. Formula 4 opened the schedule and, as required by the regulations, was split into two groups, or more precisely, two series. Next came the Italian Sport Prototypes Championship featuring the Wolf GB08 Raiden, while the day's on-track action concluded with the TCR Italy qualifying sessions.

Tomorrow's schedule promises to be just as action-packed. The day will begin at 8:30 a.m. with the two qualifying sessions for the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint GT3 Championship, followed by the two GT Cup qualifying sessions. GT4 Italy qualifying will then complete the morning schedule.

At 11:10 a.m., the first race of the weekend will get underway with Formula 4 (Groups B and C). Following the afternoon break, the action will continue with Race 1 of TCR Italy, the Italian Gran Turismo Sprint GT3 Championship, the Italian Sport Prototypes Championship and the GT Cup. The day's programme will conclude with Formula 4 Race 2 (Groups A and B) and Race 1 of GT4 Italy.

A full day of exciting racing and entertainment awaits fans both on and off the track.

From Future F4 Stars to Nicola Larini’s Return in the GT Cup

This weekend, the Mugello International Circuit opens its gates for the ACI Racing Weekend.

A packed schedule of championships will take to the track, starting with the Italian F4 Championship, which returns with its four races and young talents from all over the world chasing their dream of reaching Formula 1.

The Italian Sport Prototypes Championship also returns for another round, with all drivers competing aboard the Wolf GB 08 Raiden. The two 15-minute races are sure to deliver plenty of excitement.

More thrills will come from the Italian Gran Turismo Championship Sprint Series, featuring both the powerful GT3and GT Cup classes, alongside the GT4 Italy Series.

Among the main highlights of the weekend is the return to official competition of Tuscan driver Nicola Larini, who will race a Porsche 992 GT3 Cup entered by A2 Motorsport, sharing the car with his son Davide. For Larini, it marks a true comeback after eight years at the circuit he loves most and, above all, at the wheel of a car he has never driven before. Nicola Larini certainly needs no introduction, making his return one of the weekend’s most anticipated moments for the fans.

Also competing in the GT Cup class will be Vicky Piria.

The TCR Italy championship will also be on track, featuring the seasonal debut of Cosimo Barberini, the driver from Montaione. There will be 16 cars equipped with sequential gearboxes and four fitted with DSG transmissions. This event marks the halfway point of the season and, alongside Barberini at the wheel of the Team Nos Cupra Leon VZ, it will also see the debut of Russian driver Mikail Simonov, who will compete in a Cupra entered by SP Competition.

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The recognition was conferred by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Antonio Tajani, as part of the initiative "Moto d'Italia – Culture Beyond the Track."

Rome, July 14, 2026 – The Mugello International Circuit has been awarded the title of "Ambassador of Sports Diplomacy," a recognition that highlights the role of the Tuscan circuit as an Italian excellence capable of promoting, through sport, the image, values, and heritage of our country around the world.

The award ceremony took place in Rome at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Farnesina) during the event "Moto d'Italia – Culture Beyond the Track," chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Antonio Tajani, who presented the plaque to the Director of the Mugello International Circuit, Paolo Poli.

Owned by Ferrari, the Mugello Circuit has for decades represented one of the symbolic venues of Italian and international motorcycle racing. The history of the circuit, the prestige of the events it hosts, and its deep connection with the local area make it a benchmark facility, capable of combining sport, innovation, sustainability, and the promotion of Made in Italy.

Over the years, Mugello has established itself as one of the most prestigious international showcases of Italian motorsport excellence, contributing to the promotion of the culture of two- and four-wheel mobility while generating significant economic, tourism, and image benefits for the country.

"With Moto d'Italia – Culture Beyond the Track, we wanted to highlight the contribution of motorcycle racing and the Italian two-wheel industry to promoting innovation, creativity, and the excellence of Made in Italy at the international level," said Minister Antonio Tajani. "Italian sport is a fundamental instrument of our foreign policy, as well as of our trade policy. Motorcycles are an integral part of our tradition and our territories: they represent an authentic expression of the Italian way of life. In motorcycle racing, we transform passion and culture into an industry of excellence that we export all over the world. 2026 is a highly symbolic year for this sector: it marks the 100th anniversary of the Ducati brand, the 80th anniversary of the Vespa, and the 50th anniversary of the first Motorcycle Grand Prix held at the Mugello Circuit, which last May welcomed 180,000 attendees from all over the world."

Upon receiving the recognition as Ambassador of Sports Diplomacy, the Director of the Mugello International Circuit, Paolo Poli, stated:

"It is a privilege for us and for Ferrari, the owner of the facility, to receive this important institutional recognition. One cannot speak about Italian motorcycle racing without also telling the story of the places where this passion takes shape. Racing circuits are strategic sporting infrastructures, but also places of tourism, innovation, safety, territorial identity, and collective memory. This year our circuit celebrates the 50th anniversary of the first Motorcycle Grand Prix held here in 1976. The awarding of this title is a source of great pride for Mugello and an encouragement to continue promoting sport as a tool for growth, international promotion, and economic development. Confirming this, according to the latest study relating to the circuit's 2025 sporting season, the overall economic impact generated across the country amounted to €205 million, with 250 days of on-track activity."

The initiative brought together representatives from institutions, the motorcycle industry, and the world of sport, confirming the role of the two-wheel sector as an ambassador of Italian excellence worldwide. Among those in attendance, alongside Minister Tajani, were Carmelo Ezpeleta, Chief Executive Officer of MotoGP Sports Entertainment; Matteo Zoppas, President of ICE Agency; Mariano Roman, President of ANCMA; Giovanni Copioli, President of the Italian Motorcycling Federation (FMI); Claudio Domenicali, Chief Executive Officer of Ducati; Massimo Rivola, Chief Executive Officer of Aprilia Racing; together with riders Pecco Bagnaia, Luca Marini, Max Biaggi, Kiara Fontanesi, Giacomo Agostini, and Franco Uncini.

The recognition conferred upon the Mugello International Circuit further strengthens the circuit's role as an international benchmark not only for motorsport competitions, but also as a meeting place for sport, culture, innovation, and diplomacy, contributing to the promotion of Italy and its excellence on the world's leading international stages.

A total of 12 races and more than 300 riders will take to the track as the 2026 Coppa Italia Velocità heads to the Mugello Circuit for its second round of the season, taking place from June 26 to 28. One of Italy's premier racing venues, the iconic Tuscan circuit will once again host the country's leading FMI-approved championships.

The spectacular Mugello track will welcome competitors from the Trofeo Italiano Amatori (1000 and 600), Trofeo RR Cup, National Trophy 1000, Dunlop Cup (1000 and 600), Pirelli Cup (1000 and 600), and Trofeo IRC Performance Cup, alongside two highly successful one-make series: the Aprilia Racing RS 457 Cup and the Suzuki GSX-8R Cup. The weekend will also feature the third round of the Italian Women's Championship (CIV Femminile).

FMI-APPROVED CHAMPIONSHIPS READY FOR ACTION

The Trofeo Italiano Amatori, now in its 21st season and organized by Moto Club Motolampeggio, kicked off at Vallelunga with Walter Di Carlo taking victory in the 1000 class ahead of wild cards Giovanni Flagello and Alessandro Salemme. In the 600 class, Gianluigi Rizzi claimed top honours ahead of Simone Bonaccorso and Ludovico Papale.

The RR Cup, racing this weekend in memory of Dimitri Tempesti, who tragically passed away during Saturday practice at Vallelunga, opened its 2026 campaign with a victory for Santo Isgrò, followed by Stefano Zago and Christian Cippitelli.

The Virus Power National Trophy 1000, organized by Moto Club Spoleto, saw reigning champion Francesco Ciaccibegin his title defence in perfect fashion, taking victory ahead of Marco Marcheluzzo and Roberto Ferrara. Meanwhile, the opening round of the IRC Performance Cup confirmed the strength of Luca Cimarello, who won ahead of Santo Lico and Roberto Galdoni.

As always, the Dunlop Cup, promoted by EMG Eventi, attracted riders with extensive national and international experience. Andrea Boscoscuro claimed victory in the 1000 class ahead of Remo Castellarin and Sweden's Edvin Röjerås, while Armando Pontone won the 600 class ahead of Domenico Passanisi and Valentino Casalboni.

In the Pirelli Cup, organized by Ideal Gomme Eventi, Danilo Antino Aveta won the 1000 class ahead of Peppino Cirotto and Christian Micochiero. The 600 class featured an exciting battle between Nicola Bernabè and Michael Coletti, with just 0.214 seconds separating the pair at the chequered flag, while Andrea Tamburini completed the podium.

Now in its second season, the Aprilia Racing RS 457 Cup continues its mission of developing young talent through an accessible and educational racing platform. The opening round saw Gabriel Fabio Vuono take victory ahead of Andrea Benvenuti and Omri Chen.

In the Suzuki GSX-8R Cup, championship leader Samuele Marino arrives at Mugello with a healthy points advantage over his closest challengers, Mattia Lacasella and Fabio Starnone.

ROUND THREE OF THE WOMEN'S ITALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

The Coppa Italia weekend will also host the third round of the 2026 Women's Italian Championship (CIV Femminile).

Following the opening two rounds at Misano and Vallelunga, Poland's Karolina Danak (Prata Motorsport) leads the standings after winning two of the first three races. She sits on 61 points, holding a three-point advantage over Spain's Yvonne Cerpa (Gradacorse) and a six-point lead over Elisabetta Monti (Team Trasimeno), winner of Race 2 at Misano.

Also among the championship contenders is Josephine Bruno (Team Trasimeno), currently 11 points off the lead. She arrives at Mugello after an impressive debut in the FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship at Misano, where she qualified fifth in Superpole and secured a Top 10 finish in Race 2.

SAFETY AND RIDER DEVELOPMENT

The rider development programme will continue at Mugello under the guidance of FMI technical instructors. Throughout the weekend, competitors will take part in dedicated training sessions designed to improve riding technique, beginning with race-start practice.

In addition to on-track monitoring, riders will attend classroom briefings focusing on circuit safety and further refinement of riding skills.

EVENT SCHEDULE

Round 2 of the 2026 Coppa Italia Velocità gets underway on Friday, June 26, with free practice sessions.

Official qualifying will take place on Saturday from 9:20 a.m., while Sunday, June 28, will feature all 12 races, with the first race scheduled to start at 9:10 a.m.

Tickets are available both at the circuit and through TicketOne.