by InTrieste
The historic Trieste-Opicina race, a celebrated event in vintage motor sport, will return on April 5-6, 2025. Organized by the Club dei Venti all’Ora, the event commemorates the original race that ran between 1911 and 1971, connecting the city of Trieste with the Karst Plateau.
During its peak years, the race attracted legendary drivers, including Tazio Nuvolari, who secured Scuderia Ferrari’s first victory in 1930 with an Alfa Romeo P2, as well as Formula 1 stars of the 1970s like Jochen Rindt and Arturo Merzario. Giampiero “Momo” Moretti set the standing course record in 1970, driving a Ferrari 512S. Women also played a role in the event’s history, most notably Ada Pace, known as “Sayonara,” who won the 1958 race in an Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
The 2025 edition will feature a vintage car rally, including a skill-based competition for ASI-certified vehicles built up to 2005. The event will begin on April 5 at the historic Lloyd Austriaco Arsenal with a photo exhibition and a presentation of a new book on Istrian motorcycle racer Adolfo “Marama” Toyo. On April 6, the race will cover Trieste’s city center, its outskirts, and Opicina, with three timed skill-test sessions and a final award ceremony.
This year’s event maintains its “ASI Green” certification, emphasizing sustainability. The Club dei Venti all’Ora has committed to reducing its environmental impact, planting 100 trees in the Val di Fiemme forest and partnering with Net-Hero to offset six tons of CO2 through certified international reforestation projects.
Spectators will be able to view the race from various vantage points along the historic route, including Trieste’s waterfront, the winding roads of the San Giovanni district, and the panoramic Strada Nuova per Opicina. Popular viewing spots include the curves near Obelisco, where the climb begins in earnest, offering dramatic views of the vintage vehicles navigating the ascent. Safety barriers and crowd management will be in place to ensure public safety, and several access points will be set up for pedestrians and photographers.
By blending history with a focus on sustainability, the Trieste-Opicina Historic continues to celebrate Italy’s racing heritage while adapting to modern environmental concerns.
More information can be found here.
