The 1000 Miglia Experience Italy 2026 has officially crossed the finish line, concluding a spectacular three-day journey through the sun-drenched landscapes of Puglia. Ending in the historic heart of Taranto at Piazza Maria Immacolata, the event celebrated a perfect marriage of vintage automotive engineering and modern performance.
The “City of the Two Seas” provided a breathtaking backdrop as 54 crews completed a rigorous 630-kilometre course. This year’s edition was not just a parade; it was a technical challenge featuring 63 Time Trials and 6 Average Trials that pushed both man and machine to their limits.
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The Winners: Classic Elegance and Modern Power
Victory in the Classic Cars category went to Matteo Loiudice and Beatrice Mora. The duo delivered a masterclass in precision driving behind the wheel of their iconic 1954 Porsche 356 Pre A.
In the Modern Cars category, Gianluigi and Federico Smussi secured the top spot in a 2004 MG TF, finishing with an impressive 545 penalty points.
Final Podium Standings
| Category | Rank | Crew | Vehicle |
| Classic | 1st | Loiudice-Mora | Porsche 356 Pre A (1954) |
| Classic | 2nd | Girardi-Mastellini | Porsche 356 Pre A |
| Classic | 3rd | Gessler-Gessler | Lancia Fulvia Sport 1600 |
| Modern | 1st | Smussi-Smussi | MG TF (2004) |
| Modern | 2nd | Vergamini-Bertolucci | Ferrari SF90 Spider |
| Modern | 3rd | Macario-Di Costanzo | Ferrari 488 Pista |
A Scenic Route Through History
The 1000 Miglia Experience Italy kicked off in Bari, where the Adriatic seafront glowed under the Italian sun. The route was carefully curated to showcase Puglia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and coastal gems.
- Leg 1: Bari to Polignano a Mare, featuring the famous Trulli of Alberobello.
- Leg 2: The “White City” of Ostuni and a prestigious lunch at Brindisi’s Castello Svevo, which served as the venue for the G7 in 2024.
- Leg 3: A 280-km marathon from Lecce to Taranto, passing through Otranto and the southern tip at Santa Maria di Leuca.
Key Takeaway for Drivers: Success in a regularity rally like the 1000 Miglia Experience relies more on consistency and timing than raw top speed. Navigating the 63 Time Trials requires a deep understanding of your vehicle’s mechanical rhythm.
Technical Highlights: Porsche vs. Ferrari
While the classic Porsche 356 Pre A stole the show with its lightweight, rear-engine agility, the modern field showcased the pinnacle of Italian hybrid technology. The second-place Ferrari SF90 Spider, driven by Fabio Vergamini and Maurizia Bertolucci, remains a marvel of engineering with its 1,000 cv output and advanced AWD system.
The SF90 crew also secured the Salento Trophy during a thrilling 1-on-1 challenge in Lecce. This performance proved that modern supercars can handle the tight, technical streets just as well as the open road.
Summary of the 2026 Experience
The 2026 edition solidified this format as the gold standard for “Italian Style” motoring. It successfully combined technical sporting commitment with luxury tourism. For participants and spectators alike, it was a vivid journey through the archaic charm of Martano and the coastal splendor of Gallipoli.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 1000 Miglia Experience Italy?
It is a premium regularity rally format that allows both classic and modern cars to participate in a multi-day driving event, often held in scenic Italian regions like Puglia, following the spirit of the original Mille Miglia.
Which car won the 1000 Miglia Experience Italy 2026?
The classic category was won by a 1954 Porsche 356 Pre A, while the modern category saw the MG TF take first place.
How long was the 2026 Puglia route?
The crews covered over 630 kilometres across three days, starting in Bari and finishing in Taranto.
