On the roads of time: historic cars between collecting, memory, and tourism

On Tuesday, 5 May at 6 pm in Room 355 of the West Campus Lugano, Giuseppe Redaelli—President of the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza and the FIA International Historic Commission—will deliver a lecture in English. The event is open to the public and is held as part of the USI Master in International Tourism, in collaboration with Victorious and Circuito di Campione.

Historic cars are not merely a passion for collectors; they represent a significant testament to the past and the material culture of the twentieth century. These vehicles tell the story of the evolution of design, technology, and social customs, and can be considered a genuine heritage to be preserved and promoted as a "rolling museum" that remains alive on the roads.

Furthermore, historic motoring generates a substantial—and often underestimated—economic impact through the numerous rallies, events, and re-enactments held worldwide. This context includes the recent relaunch of the historic Campione d'Italia circuit; at just 1,116 metres, it was celebrated in its time as the "smallest street circuit in the world," serving as an example of how sporting memory and tourist appeal can successfully intertwine.

The lecture at USI will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the prospects of the sector, considering both opportunities and new challenges: from environmental sustainability to the ability to engage younger generations, who are called upon to take up and reinterpret a tradition of great cultural and identity value.

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Giuseppe Redaelli is President of the FIA International Historic Commission, the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, and the Automobile Club Varese.