The 18th edition of the Coppa Franco Mazzotti unfolded over the weekend of 3 and 4 October 2026, turning the shores of Lake Garda into a living museum of automotive heritage. Organized by the Club Mille Miglia in partnership with the Automobile Club Brescia the event attracted 143 crews who navigated a blend of lakeside roads, hill town passages and scenic countryside under clear, pleasant skies.
Participants set off from Sirmione del Garda on Saturday, heading north toward Idro. After crossing the historic town of Salò, they paused for a brief stop before continuing to Riva del Garda. A coffee break at the mountain village of Brentonico offered a chance to refuel both cars and spirits. The day wrapped up with a dinner aboard a boat moored on the lake, followed by an overnight stay back in Sirmione, ensuring racers woke up to the same tranquil waters they had crossed.
Route highlights and the finale at the Idroscalo
Sunday’s itinerary opened toward the southern tip of the lake, guiding crews through the fragrant streets of Pozzolengo and the quiet lanes of Monzambano before reaching the historic centre of Valeggio sul Mincio. A stop at the renowned Parco Sigurtà provided a verdant interlude before the rally’s ultimate test. For the first time, the competition concluded at the Idroscalo of Desenzano Aerobase Militare “Alta Velocità – a site praised for its strategic position and a compact yet intriguing historic aircraft museum. The finish line, set against the backdrop of turning propellers and vintage hangars, underscored the event’s reverence for both automotive and aeronautical heritage.
Podium results: a pure Fiat sweep
The final classification was a showcase of Fiat’s enduring appeal among classic-car enthusiasts. Andrea Vesco and Fabio Salvinelli clinched first place piloting a Fiat 508 Coppa d’Oro. Hot on their heels, the sibling duo Lorenzo and Mario Turelli secured second, also in a 508 Coppa d’Oro. The third-place slot went to Edoardo Bellini and Roberto Tiberti who drove a Fiat 508 C. This all-Fiat podium reinforced the marque’s strong connection to historic racing and highlighted the model’s balance of performance and elegance.
In the women-only “Coppa delle Dame”, the MG TB proved its mettle. Federica Bignetti and Luisa Ciatti repeated their triumph from the previous year, demonstrating the growing competitiveness of women drivers in classic events.
Young talent and special incentives
One of the most striking aspects of the 2026 edition was the influx of young competitors. The Club Mille Miglia introduced a 50% discount on entry fees for participants under 30, a move that attracted a sizable contingent of emerging pilots from across Europe. This youth-focused policy not only broadened the event’s demographic but also injected fresh energy into the traditionally seasoned field.
International crews were well represented, yet the emphasis on younger drivers created a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and rivalry. Many of these up-and-coming teams navigated the demanding regularity sections with precision, proving that enthusiasm and skill can bridge the gap between vintage machinery and modern driving techniques.
From the lakeside start in Sirmione to the historic runway of Desenzano’s Idroscalo, the rally offered a memorable tableau for participants and spectators alike, while the all-Fiat podium and youth incentives signalled promising trends for future editions.
