by Michael Satterfield - 10/08/2024
It’s not every day that a legendary Italian race takes over the Sunshine State, but come February 2025, the spirit of Enzo Ferrari’s “most beautiful race in the world” will blaze across the highways and coastal byways of South Florida. The iconic 1000 Miglia Experience, a showcase of some of the world’s most breathtaking classic and modern cars, is set to make its North American debut as part of the inaugural Miami Car Week, a new celebration of automotive culture.
The 1000 Miglia Experience Florida, in partnership with the renowned RM Sotheby’s, is more than just a car rally—it’s a celebration of heritage, elegance, and speed that promises to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. From February 22-25, 2025, participants will embark on a 1,000-mile journey that not only spans Miami’s vibrant streets but also captures the diverse beauty of South Florida’s landscape, offering a blend of fast-paced adventure and luxurious experiences, all while rubbing shoulders with a carefully curated selection of historic and modern vehicles.
From Italy to Miami: A Race with a Legacy
For nearly a century, the original 1000 Miglia has been synonymous with Italian excellence, serving as a rolling museum of automotive history since its inception in 1927. The Florida edition aims to carry forward this legacy while bringing a new twist, incorporating a vibrant Miami flair into the event. Think of it as a celebration of La Dolce Vita—with palm trees and sunsets instead of cypress-lined Tuscan roads.
“Bringing the 1000 Miglia to Florida is more than just an expansion—it’s a unique opportunity to share this timeless tradition with a new audience, offering them a front-row seat to the grandeur and history that have defined the Red Arrow for nearly a century,” said Massimo Cicatiello, President of 1000 Miglia Experience Florida.
The U.S. edition promises a captivating mix of vintage 1000 Miglia-era vehicles (1927-1957), Classic Icons (1958-1994), and the latest in Supercars and Hypercars, all set to carve their way through iconic routes from Coral Gables to Tampa, and back to Miami. The scenic path will blend the old and new, with legacies of the past racing alongside the future of automotive design.
The Route: A Driving Masterpiece
The route is a masterpiece of Floridian roads that crisscross lush national preserves, glide along pristine beaches, and pass through some of the state’s most storied locales. Participants will start and end at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, a landmark that exudes old-world grandeur and perfectly complements the elegance of the event.
- Stage 1 takes drivers from Coral Gables to Tampa, cutting through the Everglades and the breathtaking Big Cypress National Preserve before winding through Naples’ upscale districts.
- Stage 2 sees the rally continue from Tampa to West Palm Beach, featuring an exploration of historic landmarks and the awe-inspiring space-centric routes of Cape Canaveral.
- Stage 3 brings participants back along the legendary A1A, hugging the Atlantic coastline as they return to Miami, culminating in a grand finish that promises to be a spectacle for racers and spectators alike.
With South Florida’s unique mix of art deco architecture, vibrant art scene, and luxury lifestyle, the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida isn’t just a race—it’s an event that embraces the very essence of Miami, from its cutting-edge supercars to its stylish cocktail parties.
RM Sotheby’s Partnership: Elevating the Event
One of the most exciting aspects of this inaugural event is the collaboration with RM Sotheby’s, the world’s premier automotive auction house. Known for their exquisite collector car auctions, RM Sotheby’s will be adding an extra layer of exclusivity to the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida. Imagine private previews of rare and iconic automobiles, curated social gatherings, and the opportunity to bid on some of the most coveted cars in the world—all against the backdrop of Miami’s vibrant luxury scene.
“My passion for cars and racing has evolved into a long and successful career that I deeply cherish. The 1000 Miglia has always captivated me as one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world. For it to debut in North America, in my home state of Florida, is an incredible opportunity,” shared Bill Warner, Honorary Chairman of ModaMiami and an automotive legend in his own right.
Miami Car Week: A New Automotive Destination
The 1000 Miglia Experience Florida is not just a stand-alone event; it’s the crown jewel of the newly minted Miami Car Week. Running from February 22nd through March 2nd, 2025, Miami Car Week promises to turn South Florida into the ultimate automotive playground. From high-end concours and supercar showcases to immersive brand activations, the week will culminate with the prestigious ModaMiami event at the Biltmore Hotel.
ModaMiami, with its blend of high fashion, luxury, and automotive culture, serves as the perfect closing chapter to Miami Car Week, bringing together the worlds of art, style, and speed in a setting that only Miami can offer.
An Unmissable Opportunity
For participants, the stakes are high. Winners of this year’s 1000 Miglia Experience Florida categories will earn guaranteed entry into the 2026 1000 Miglia in Italy, cementing their place in one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world. It’s not just about crossing the finish line first; it’s about being part of a legacy that links South Florida’s car culture to one of the most storied races in history.
If you’re an automotive enthusiast looking to combine the thrill of the race with the allure of luxury, the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida is set to be a can’t-miss event. It’s where history, speed, and style intersect—under the swaying palms and neon lights of Miami.
So, mark your calendars and get your driving gloves ready, because the Sunshine State is about to get a whole lot faster. See you at the starting line.
For more visit 1000migliaexperienceflorida.us