The Malta Classic (formerly the Mdina Grand Prix) has launched a call for participants and sponsors, whilst announcing this year’s event dates (6-9th October) and a new brand identity. The announcement was made today at the Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa.
The Malta Classic is a four-day classic car and lifestyle event celebrating vintage style against a historic backdrop. A new brand and enhancements to the event programme are intended to raise the profile of this event in Malta and beyond. This latest announcement is part of the natural evolution of this prestigious event, now entering its sixth consecutive year.
This year, the Malta Classic welcomes over 70 participants from England, Italy, France, Malta and Switzerland. A variety of notable makes will form the grid this year, including Riley, Alvis, Ferrari, Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Talbot. The organising committee is also accepting expressions of interest from non-member, classic enthusiasts wishing to participate.
This four-day event offers a thrilling and entertaining programme for enthusiasts, families and foreign visitors. On Thursday, 6th October the Malta Classic opens with the Hill Climb. “The Pennellu hill has been chosen again as a venue for the hillclimb, after which we will be having a party for visiting overseas drivers in Mellieha,” said Charles A. Zahra, Secretary of the Valletta Grand Prix Foundation. On Friday, 7th October the Malta Classic Concours d’Elegance celebrates the power and beauty of classics in the heart of Mdina, where select car collectors are invited to unveil their historic cars. Entertainment, period dress and refreshments add to the delight of visitors.
On Saturday, 8th October the challenging circuit outside Mdina’s fortifications awaits during timed drives that determine the starting order of Sunday’s grid. On Sunday, 9th October the thrilling races begin, as the unforgiving nature of the Malta Classic Grand Prix circuit brings out the very best performances by car and driver. The weekend draws to a close with an awards ceremony hosted at the Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa.
“For the third consecutive year, we at the Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa are thrilled to be sponsoring the Malta Classic, an event synonymous with charm and elegance,” says general manager David Woodward. “As the Malta Classic brand continues to evolve, it fits ever-better with our own dedication to celebrating and providing the very best things in life, from top-quality food and wine, to excellent service, accommodation and events. As always, we look forward to the exciting results that Malta Classic brings.”
Last year’s event featured more than 60 pre-1976 cars, with a number of participants arriving from international locales as far away as Australia. The winner of the 2016 Grand Prix was Roberto Farneti (Ravenna, Italy) driving a Lotus 23B 1963.
