Michael SatterfieldFor decades, the 1000 Miglia has been synonymous with elegance, endurance, and a deep appreciation for automotive history. The legendary Italian road race, often called “the most beautiful race in the world,” made its grand debut in the United States with the 1000 Miglia Florida—a spectacular 1,000-mile journey through the Sunshine State.
From Miami’s vibrant streets to the historic charm of Venice and the rocket launch sites of Cape Canaveral, this inaugural edition was more than just a competition—it was a rolling tribute to motoring excellence. With seventy stunning cars spanning decades of automotive artistry, the 1000 Miglia Florida was a feast for the senses, igniting passion at every stop along the route.
A New Chapter in the 1000 Miglia Legacy
The arrival of the 1000 Miglia Florida marks a significant milestone in the storied history of this legendary event. Since its inception in 1927, the 1000 Miglia has captivated enthusiasts with its unique blend of high-speed competition, historic automobiles, and a route that winds through picturesque landscapes. Now, for the first time, that heritage has been brought stateside, weaving through Florida’s most breathtaking coastal roads, historic districts, and motorsport hotspots.
Starting at the iconic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, the three-day journey saw competitors navigating a route that paid homage to both classic motoring and Florida’s vibrant culture. From Naples’ pristine waterfront to the scenic roads of Venice and Tampa, every mile told a story. The race also brought an unforgettable contrast between the past and future, as drivers passed the towering launchpads of Cape Canaveral, where history’s greatest space missions have taken flight.
The journey concluded with a grand finale on the world-famous Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, where thousands of spectators gathered to witness the spectacular parade of rolling masterpieces crossing the finish line.
The Champions of 1000 Miglia Florida
Competition was fierce across three categories, with participants ranging from seasoned rally veterans to passionate collectors experiencing their first 1000 Miglia. At the end of the exhilarating journey, three teams emerged victorious:
- 1000 Miglia Original Winner: Bruce Roch and Logan Roch in their breathtaking 1953 Jaguar XK 120 OTS.
- Classic Icons Winner: Gabriel Hrib and Gabriel Hrib Jr., piloting a 1959 Jaguar XK150 S.
- Hypercar & Supercar Winner: Ferrari Club Italia’s Fabrizio Macario and Giovanna Di Costanzo, dominating in a 2018 Ferrari 488 GTS.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, these champions have secured invitations to future 1000 Miglia events in both Florida and Italy, ensuring that their journey in this prestigious motorsport saga continues.
Adding to the celebration, the event also recognized automotive craftsmanship through the Poltrona Frau Best Interior Design Award, honoring vehicles that epitomized luxury and refinement.
A Spectacle for Enthusiasts and Spectators Alike
What sets the 1000 Miglia Florida apart from other automotive rallies isn’t just the competition—it’s the experience. Each stop along the way became a festival of motoring, with fans lining the streets to cheer on the parade of extraordinary cars. The mix of classic icons and modern supercars ensured there was something for every enthusiast, from pre-war Bugattis to cutting-edge Ferraris.
In Venice, the sight of vintage machines rolling past waterfront cafes created an unforgettable moment, as history and modernity merged in perfect harmony. Tampa welcomed the rally with an air of celebration, while Cape Canaveral’s backdrop of towering space-age structures emphasized the event’s theme of blending the past with the future.
The support from local communities, automotive clubs, and spectators was overwhelming, further solidifying Florida as the ideal stage for this prestigious event.
The Road Ahead for 1000 Miglia Florida
The overwhelming success of the first 1000 Miglia Florida has paved the way for what promises to be an annual tradition, seamlessly integrating Italian automotive heritage with the Sunshine State’s rich motoring culture.
Massimo Cicatiello, President of EGA USA, expressed his excitement about the event’s reception, stating,
“This first edition marks a milestone in the legacy of this iconic event, seamlessly blending the heritage of Italian motorsport with the dynamic energy of Florida. We have witnessed an extraordinary display of passion, competition, and camaraderie.”
Similarly, Aldo Bonomi, President of the Automobile Club of Brescia, reflected on the warm reception from Florida’s motorsport community, stating,
“Everywhere we went, we were met with warmth and enthusiasm. My hope is to see these participants soon in Italy, at the starting line of the legendary race in Brescia—the city of the 1000 Miglia.”
With its seamless fusion of history, luxury, and passion for driving, the 1000 Miglia Florida has set a new benchmark for classic car rallies in the United States. Plans are already underway for an even grander 2026 edition, ensuring that this event continues to attract some of the finest automobiles and most passionate enthusiasts from around the world.
A New Icon in the Making
As the sun set over Miami Beach, casting golden hues over the gleaming paintwork of classic Ferraris, Jaguars, and Bugattis, it was clear that something special had just begun. The 1000 Miglia Florida is more than just a race—it’s an event that celebrates the artistry of the automobile, the thrill of the open road, and the enduring connection between past and present.
Whether behind the wheel of a 1930s Alfa Romeo or a modern-day Ferrari SF90, each driver in this inaugural edition played a part in writing the next chapter of a motorsport legacy nearly a century in the making. As Florida welcomes the 1000 Miglia with open arms, one thing is certain: the road ahead is as exciting as ever.
For those who dream of experiencing the thrill firsthand, the 1000 Miglia Florida is now officially part of the global motorsport calendar—offering a chance to live the legend right here in the United States.
Photos Courtesy of 1000 Miglia Florida
