It's rally been a treat

For car lovers, the 1000 Miglia Experience UAE is an opportunity to see - and talk about - rare, timeless cars in all their glory

- HORMAZD SORABJEE

As far as motor sport events go, the Mille Miglia is among the greatest. Conceived as a 1,000-mile race across Italy (hence the name) from 1927 to 1957,it was recreated in 1977 into a slower paced regularity rally, at which precision and consistency are prioritised over speed. The Italian rerun each year is for vehicles manufactured before 1957, and those that either participated in or were registered for the original races.

The UAE joined this storied tradition in 2021, hosting the 1000 Miglia. The difference: There is no vintage requirement. Even modern classic cars can participate. It's dramatically widened the appeal of the UAE event, officially called the 1000 Miglia Experience UAE. The organisers, Octanium Experiences, delivered a show worthy of the Mille Miglia's legacy.