The upcoming edition of Estoril Classics promises, as always, to offer a multitude of compelling reasons to attend. We'll highlight the top six and elaborate on why you shouldn't miss a visit to the Autódromo do Estoril on the upcoming weekend of October 6th, 7th, and 8th.
Formula 1 Returns to Portugal
Formula 1 serves as the driving force behind motorsport, captivating dedicated motorsport enthusiasts and shattering barriers to engage new audiences in the world of four-wheeled racing.
At this year's Estoril Classics, you'll have the unique opportunity to intimately connect with vehicles that have etched their names into the annals of the sport's premier category. This includes iconic models like the Lotus 72 and the Williams FW08, both boasting world championship titles. You can also get acquainted with the McLaren M26, the very racing machine that carried James Hunt to victory in his final three Formula 1 Grands Prix.
The starting grid for the 6th edition of the Classic GP will feature 21 historically significant cars, offering a chance for seasoned enthusiasts to revisit the vehicles that have left an indelible mark on their memories, while also allowing new fans to experience the essence of Formula 1 single-seaters from the past.
Grand Prix Bikes Make the Autodromo to Vibrate Again
The Cascais racing circuit has been a historic stage in world motorcycling, having been the scene of victory by the second smallest margin in the history of the Motorcycle World Championship/MotoGP - when at the 2006 Portuguese Grand Prix, Toni Elias beat Valentino Rossi by 0.002s.
The Amicale Spirit Of Speed brings us the spirit of the world's great two-wheeled competitions, with on-track displays of the machines that have marked the history of motorcycling, including bikes such as Giacomo Agostini's Suzuki 500 RG MK1, Barry Sheen's Yamaha 500 AKAI 0W53, Kevin Schwantz's Suzuki 500 RGV XR75 and Wayne Rainey's Yamaha 500 YZR 0WF2.
As well as riding on the track, letting the horses roar on the circuit, there will also be presentations of the bikes in the paddock, where some of their technical secrets and history will be explained.
Ferrari 250 LM – a Car with History
In 2023, Ferrari clinched its tenth mythical victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, the last time the Italian automaker triumphed prior to this year was way back in 1965, when the Ferrari 250 LM, entered by the North America Racing Team and piloted by Jochen Rindt and Masten Gregory, secured the prestigious title.
The Ferrari 250 LM, hailing from Maranello, originated from a prototype known as the 250P. Enzo Ferrari's intention was to homologate it as a GT car to replace the 250 GTO. Regrettably, the FIA denied the request due to Ferrari's failure to produce the mandatory minimum of 100 units.
Nevertheless, the 250 LM, even in private hands and competing against far more advanced prototypes, defied the odds and emerged victorious at La Sarthe, marking Ferrari's last triumph at Le Mans for 58 long years.
This year's Estoril Classics will showcase a splendid Ferrari 250 LM, entered by Clive Joy. This is the very car that secured victory at the 1964 12 Hours of Reims in the skilled hands of Graham Hill and Jo Bonnier.
For Portuguese enthusiasts, it's worth noting that this Ferrari participated in the 1964 and 1965 editions of the Luanda Grand Prix, achieving its best result with a fourth-place finish in the most recent race.
Paddock Ambience: Where Racing Enthusiasm Meets Automotive Excellence
In addition to the on-track competitions, which will undoubtedly provide fans with intense excitement, the paddock area will be teeming with points of interest for all Estoril Classics visitors, creating a unique and special atmosphere.
Within the 'Pitstop Village,' all those holding paddock tickets will have the opportunity to discover 'auto memorabilia' that will delight fans, along with a variety of food outlets where they can refuel in preparation for another round of racing.
Apart from the offerings you'll find, what sets the atmosphere apart is the fact that you might encounter a Ford GT40, a Ferrari 250 GT SWB, a Porsche 908, or the Suzuki that led Kevin Schwantz to victory, all while you're enjoying lunch or recovering after an exhilarating race.
Proximity to these remarkable machines is the defining feature, and their owners are more than willing to engage in conversations about the cars they're proud of, fostering a shared experience that makes Estoril Classics truly exceptional.
Museum of Racing Rarities
The array of cars and motorbikes on display at Estoril Classics will be truly impressive, covering the history of motorsport from 1950 to the present day.
Any fan would be overwhelmed if they could catch a glimpse of these infernal racing machines, which broke new ground in their day, in a museum, but on the track, pushed to the limit, doing what they were created to do, it will be an unforgettable experience.
Eleven categories will be racing, each featuring cars with certain characteristics and dealing with a period of motor racing, representing the great eras of prototypes, GT, Touring cars and F1, while motorbikes will be exhibited on the track.
Any fan with access to the paddock will therefore have the chance to get up close and personal with the cars and motorbikes, and then see them being pushed to the limit on the track, something unique for such valuable machines - some valued at more than 10 million euros.
Miguel Oliveira's bike Takes Center Stage in the Paddock
Miguel Oliveira, a renowned figure in Portuguese sports, is a seasoned MotoGP competitor with an impressive record of five Grand Prix victories.
At the Estoril Classics, the stunning KTM RC16, which carried the Portuguese rider through the pinnacle of two-wheeled racing in 2021, will be proudly exhibited in the paddock. Moreover, captivating lectures are scheduled to uncover some of the machine's hidden engineering marvels, instrumental in helping the twenty-eight-year-old secure a thrilling victory at the Catalunya Grand Prix.
This is just one of the many alluring features awaiting visitors in the Estoril Classics paddock, which, judging by the brisk ticket sales, promises to be brimming with vitality.
Tickets are swiftly disappearing, but a limited number is still available for purchase through the official Estoril Classics website, BoL, and at select physical locations, including FNAC, Worten, El Corte Inglés, and CTT Correios.
Access to Stand A comes at no cost, while paddock access is priced at 20 euros for Friday and 30 euros for the remaining days. An inclusive 50-euro ticket allows pass holders to enjoy close encounters with the captivating machinery and teams, along with the full array of activities, including the engaging 'Pitstop Village.
