In conjunction with the preeminent Grand Prix De Monaco Historique and with Italian Ambassador to Monaco Antonio Morabito in attendance, the 2012 Eco Targa Florio project was unveiled. Antonio Marasco, President of the Automobile Club of Palermo, and Sandro Binelli, President of MAC Group, introduced the programme and novelties of this highly awaited event to an audience of important collectors and international figures, including Prince Serge of Yugoslavia.

“Presenting the Targa Florio in Monaco during these days dedicated to classic cars is of essential value, for the Targa Florio is a symbol of innovation and of some of the most important Italian and foreign car manufacturers, as well as naturally being an emblem of Sicily and its unique qualities,” said Antonio Morabito, Italian Ambassador to Monaco.

“We’re working on an important staging this year, to restore the visibility that the event deserves, and to do so, we’re paying special attention to the cars registered and to their selection,” said Sandro Binelli, President of MAC Group. “I’m especially proud to announce that Mercedes-Benz will be bringing a 300 SLR from 1955 that raced the Mille Miglia that year with race number 658. The car will be entrusted to no other than the famous driver Jochen Mass, winner of the 24 Hours of Les Mans.”

For the occasion of the 2012 Eco Targa Florio, Arturo Merzario, a driver whose name can be found in the Targa Florio’s roll of honour, will return to the Sicilian roads. Called on to speak from the audience, Merzario announced, “I’m honoured to be able to participate in the Targa once again. It is my hope that the Eco Targa Florio will raise the Circuito delle Madonie to the international levels that should be expected from such a legendary route.”

“This year, Sicily is eager to offer a warm welcome to the Eco Targa Florio in its new formula, which will provide important visibility to the sector across all aspects,” explained Antonio Marasco, President of the Automobile Club of Palermo. “MAC Group’s meticulous organization has already guaranteed a noteworthy number of registrations with cars of great historic value, aptly illustrating the history and tradition of the ‘oldest race in the world’.”

From 11th to 14th October, Eco Targa Florio 2012 will set off from the legendary Circuito delle Madonie that created the legend.

Due to an unexpected number of applications, the registration period has been extended: applications can be submitted through the end of June to participate in this unmissable rally of vehicles that contributed to creating the Targa Florio’s fame. In the meantime, the Committee has begun the evaluation process for accepting the first 150 participants.

Fonte: boxnews