Historic Challenge
When history hits the tracks, it’s impossible not to feel involved. At the 2007 World Finals at Mugello, almost a hundred fascinating cars took part in the “Shell Ferrari Historic Challenge,” which has been running since 1996, with Maseratis admitted since 1999, while the Grand Prix Alfa Romeos run by Scuderia Ferrari in the Thirties have always been allowed. There are two series, in Europe and North America, sub-divided into categories according to the year they were made – cars have to be pre- 1989 - and according to their type. For example, a key distinction is made between cars with drum brakes and disc brakes. As for the drivers, they don’t go easy on the machinery, even if some of them are easily over half a century old and have to respect their original concept.
All the cars involved have to possess a “Technical Entry Sheet” and all Ferrari models have their “Certificate of authenticity”, given out by Ferrari Classiche. When out on track, they come under the discrete but expert eye of those who in some cases were present when these cars were raced first time around, to check but above all to be helpful, sharing with the drivers the spirit of love and a passion for the Ferraris of yesteryear. The championship also has the great virtue of providing a living tribute, far from the atmosphere of a museum, to Ferrari and Maserati’s great sporting past, whatever the age of the cars. The “Shell Historic Challenge” is tied in to special events, taking place at famous tracks such as Spa, Mugello and the Nürburgring and is organised to the usual high Ferrari standards.
This means, competitors have only to think of getting the most out of their cars, while the racing spectacle is just part of the enjoyment that also includes such thrills as the sound of the classic 12 cylinder Ferrari engine fitted to a “barchetta” from the Fifties or a car that is more or less of the modern era.
It is the global fascination for these cars that, in many cases, have won titles and championships which gives the “Historic Challenge” its unique and unmistakeable atmosphere. It is not just down to the races, but also the dreams that passion and enthusiasm have made real.