From August 30 to September 1, the capital of Serbia once again played host to the "Belgrade Grand Prix," an event held under the esteemed patronage of the Serbian Royal Family and the Italian Embassy in Serbia. Organized by Mr. Giorgio Andrian, Director of the Belgrade Grand Prix and Motor Heritage Consulting, and his entire team, in collaboration with the Serbian National Federation of Historic Vehicles and FIVA's Culture and Youth Commission. This year’s event was a remarkable tribute to a historic moment in automotive history as it marked 85 years anniversary.
The Belgrade Grand Prix commemorates the original International Car and Motorcycle Race, which took place on September 3, 1939, in honour of King Peter II’s birthday.
Day 1: Italian Cultural Institute and an Evening at the Italian Embassy
The first day of the event featured two insightful panels hosted at the Italian Cultural Institute, followed by an evening cocktail party at the Italian Embassy.
The first panel focused on the Autopera (Porsche 996), a unique project by the renowned designer Cleto Munari, Ettore Sottsass, Cesar Pelli, Mimmo Paladino and Alessandro Mendini. Munari, celebrated for his exquisite collections of precious objects, has worked with some of the greatest masters of 20th-century and contemporary design. His creations, ranging from furniture to jewellery, are housed in the permanent collections of prestigious museums like the MoMA and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It was a privilege to meet Munari at the event in person and to admire the car brought by its owner, Avv. Cristian Stove.
The second panel, which resonated particularly with me, centred on the theme of women in the automotive world. Titled "Women and Motors? Joys and That's It!," created by Elisabetta Cozzi of the Fratelli Cozzi Museum in Italy. This project, captured by photographer Camilla Albertini, features 20 prominent women in the automotive sector, each photographed inside a car with their hands on the steering wheel, their faces reflected in the rearview mirror. This artistic portrayal underscores the strength and determination of these women. The second edition of this series highlights the directors of Italy’s automobile museums, with the third edition set to be unveiled on November 25th, in honor of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The photographs were brought to Belgrade for this special occasion.
Day 2: Exploring Belgrade's Literary Heritage and a Royal Evening
The second day began with a productive meeting with members of the Culture and Youth Commission at the Metropol Hotel, followed by a visit to Klub Književnika (Writer’s Club), a historic site that has embodied the spirit of Belgrade for over 70 years. The house, originally built by Mića Piroćanac in the mid-19th century, became a gathering place for the Yugoslav literary elite after World War II and the place quickly gained a reputation as a haven for intellectuals, free thinkers, and great ideas…It is worth noting that in 1939, the headquarters of the Automobile Club of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia were located in the same building, and a special award ceremony for Tazio Nuvolari, the winner of the original 1939 Belgrade Grand Prix, was held there on September 3, 1939
Over the years, it has hosted countless cultural events, award ceremonies, and visits from foreign artists and dignitaries. Notably, the cup for the winner of the original 1939 Belgrade Grand Prix, Tazio Nuvolari, was once awarded here as well in 1939.
In the evening, the Culture and Youth Commission joined other distinguished guests at the White Palace, where eight historic cars were displayed in the palace’s gardens. The evening was further enriched by a specially designed ballet performance by artists from the National Foundation for Dance, led by Director Ms. Aja Jung.
Day 3: A Historic Parade and Exhibition
The event culminated on Sunday, September 1, with a grand parade and exhibition featuring more than 60 historic cars and motorcycles from Italy, Bulgaria, and Serbia. These vehicles, each with its own unique story, represented far more than just material value. A particularly special moment was the return of the original BMW 319/1 to the streets around Kalemegdan, 85 years after it participated in the 1939 race. This was the only remaining fully functional vehicle from that historic event. The parade concluded in front of Belgrade’s City Hall, bringing the three-day celebration to a memorable close.
The Culture and Youth Commission extends its heartfelt gratitude to the event organizers, including Mr. Giorgio Andrian, Director of the Belgrade Grand Prix and Motor Heritage Consulting, and his entire team, the Serbian Association for historic vehicles, the Italian Institute of Culture, and the Italian Embassy in Belgrade for their invaluable support. Of course, without Maria Bussolati` s Fiat Balilla Coppa D Oro 1935, the event would not be the same. Thank you, Maria!
The 2024 Belgrade Grand Prix not only honored the past but also highlighted the enduring cultural and technological significance of this historic city. We look forward to seeing this event grow even further in the years to come.
Text and pictures by Natasa Grom Jerina
