The FIVA World Rally Istanbul – Cumhuriyet Rally, organised by the Classic Car Club of Türkiye under the auspices of FIVA from the dates of October 24-26 successfully concluded three unforgettable days of driving pleasure, uniting automotive heritage with cultural celebration.
100 Distinctive Historic Vehicles Cross Two Continents
The rally brought together one hundred remarkable historic vehicles for a 210-kilometre journey across both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, making it a truly transcontinental experience. The event began under the direction of Classic Car Club of Türkiye Director Mr Hakan Kanca in the heart of the Old City at Sultanahmet Square, surrounded by the iconic Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia.
Participants completed slalom and driving tests, followed by a ceremonial tour of the legendary TOSFED Istanbul Park Formula 1 circuit, adding high-energy excitement to the weekend.
The regularity tests concluded at Işbank Towers, crowned by a cocktail reception at the top of the skyscraper, offering a magnificent sunset view over Istanbul. The evening continued with a glamorous Gala Dinner at the Swissôtel Bosphorus Ballroom.
Quality Over Quantity
Sencer Sivridağ, President of the Classic Car Club of Türkiye, stated:
“Despite high demand, we chose to prioritise quality over quantity. Only vehicles meeting FIVA criteria were accepted. One hundred distinctive classic cars were deemed eligible by the organisation. Sixty-three rally participants and thirty-seven touring participants entered the event, with fifty-one successfully completing the full rally route.
We were also delighted to welcome well-known figures such as actress Gökçe Bahadır and musician Emir Ersoy, both historic vehicle enthusiasts. It was a great honour to have TOSFED President Eren Üçlertoprağı give the start and FIVA Vice President Malcolm Grubb serve as the official Steward of the event, adding further prestige to this special occasion.”
FIVA World Rally Returns to Türkiye After 23 Years
FIVA Vice President Malcolm Grubb highlighted:
“The FIVA World Rally is a globally respected brand in the world of historic motoring, and we are proud to have brought it back to Türkiye after twenty-three years. The Board of the Classic Car Club of Türkiye worked closely with the FIVA World Rally team and the Events Commission for over a year to ensure a truly memorable experience. We were delighted by the strong local and international participation, with competitors from England, Bulgaria, Greece, Kosovo, and Northern Cyprus.”
A Celebration of Unity and Heritage
Held on the 102nd Anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, the rally not only honoured the legacy of historic vehicles but also conveyed a powerful message of unity, peace, and respect for cultural heritage, highlighting the deep connection between many of the participating vehicles and Türkiye’s history.
The event concluded with a Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony at Swissôtel – The Bosphorus, where winners of both the regularity and touring categories were recognised. The prestigious FIVA World Event Award was presented to Mr Sencer Sivridağ by FIVA Vice President Mr Malcolm Grubb.
This marked the first time Istanbul hosted a FIVA World Rally and the second time Türkiye has hosted the event, following Bodrum in 2002. Organisers and participants alike expressed hope that this successful edition will pave the way for future international historic automotive events in the country.
Commitment to Sustainability
Under the leadership of the Classic Car Club of Türkiye, the rally stood out not only as a celebration of the past but also as an investment in the future. With educational support programmes for university students, active participation of women in leadership and competition, and strong collaboration with local institutions, the event served as a model of social sustainability.
Engagement en faveur de la durabilité
Sous la direction du Classic Car Club of Türkiye, le rallye s’est distingué non seulement comme une célébration du passé, mais aussi comme un investissement pour l’avenir. Grâce à des programmes de soutien éducatif destinés aux étudiants universitaires, à la participation active des femmes aux fonctions de direction et à la compétition, ainsi qu’à une collaboration étroite avec les institutions locales, l’événement a constitué un modèle de durabilité sociale.
