Targa Florio 2026: Palermo and the Madonie host the 110th edition

Targa Florio 2026: sport, culture and research

From 12 to 16 May 2026 Palermo and the Madonie will host the 110th edition of the Targa Florio, the world’s oldest motor race. The event expands beyond competition to include cultural initiatives and scientific collaborations with the University of Palermo and ACI Sport.

Main schedule

• 13 May: technical and sporting scrutineering at the Museum of Motors and Mechanisms.
• 14 May: official departure ceremony in Piazza Verdi, in front of the Teatro Massimo.
• 15 May, 10:30: race start from the university campus (viale delle Scienze).
• 16 May: finish at viale delle Scienze and afternoon awards ceremony.

Route and figures

The event covers about 500 km of road stages with 141 km of special stages across the Madonie area. Key sections include Campofelice–Collesano, Scillato–Polizzi Generosa and Geraci Siculo–Castelbuono, finishing towards Pollina.

Categories and accompanying projects

• The edition features four national competitions: Italian Absolute Rally Championship Sparco, Italian Historic Rally Championship, Historic Regularity and regional Cup/Trophy events.
• The university hosts exhibitions, guided visits, debates and public activities, making the campus the event’s headquarters.
• Research initiatives include displays on hybrid engines and biometric testing on drivers during stages to analyse physiological responses to racing stresses.

The Targa Florio thus maintains its historical identity while growing into a multifaceted event that links sport, culture and research.