The legendary
Targa Florio race took place on Sicily's winding public roads through the
Madonie mountains. Created in 1906, it was one of the oldest and toughest races
in the world, with dangerous roads, gradients of over 1,100 metres and
unforgiving terrain that saw heroes such as Tazio Nuvolari, Stirling Moss and
Nino Vaccarella triumph. Ferrari has left an indelible mark on this legendary
race. In 1948, the Scuderia took its first victory with the Ferrari 166 S
driven by Clemente Biondetti, who repeated the feat the following year.
The Ferrari
246 SP, in 1961, marked a turning point with its victory, being the marque's
first mid-rear-engined car. In total, Ferrari took seven victories at the Targa
Florio, the last in 1972 with Arturo Merzario at the wheel of the 312 PB.
Although the race ended in 1977 for safety reasons, the legacy lives on in the
Ferrari Tribute, which celebrates this historic event with modern vehicles and
classic cars.
Today, this
regularity race allows participants to relive the adventure on Sicilian roads,
while admiring exceptional vehicles. In 2024, no fewer than 82 Ferraris took
part in the event. This large number of entries testifies to the continuing
appeal of this legendary race.
Each year, the
race starts in Palermo, offering a unique opportunity to follow in the
footsteps of motor racing legends, while savouring the beauty of the Sicilian
countryside and its rich gastronomy. Competitors have the opportunity to follow
historic routes, where the graffiti on the walls is still a reminder of the
exploits of the great drivers. Between driving moments and panoramic stages,
the modern Targa Florio remains a vibrant tribute to the history of motor sport
and the timeless passion for Ferrari.