Few motorsport settings anywhere can match this one: priceless classic cars racing beneath the fortified walls of Mdina, on a circuit that winds through a valley of vineyards and terraced hills. The Malta Classic returns for its 16th edition from 1 to 4 October 2026, and its headline event, the Mdina Grand Prix: takes over the weekend of 3 and 4 October.
A short history
Malta’s first Classic Car Grand Prix was organised in October 2007 by French entrepreneur and classic car enthusiast Thierry Giovannoni. Two years later, local enthusiasts set up the Valletta Grand Prix Foundation to keep the tradition going, and in 2011 the event moved to Mdina, where it has lived ever since. Last year’s edition drew more than 55 pre-1976 cars, with participants travelling from across Europe.
The four days at a glance
- Thursday 1 October, Hill Climb: vintage cars race the clock up the Mtaħleb hill, with dramatic cliff-side views towards Filfla. Free to watch.
- Friday 2 October, Style & Elegance: a concours where pre-war and post-war classics and motorcycles are judged on style and elegance. Free to watch.
- Saturday 3 October, Grand Prix practice: cars are put to the test on a track of tight bends, sweeping curves and inclines, finishing with timed drives that set Sunday’s starting order.
- Sunday 4 October, Mdina Grand Prix: race day, with side-by-side racing and overtakes, categorised by speed, power and era.
Which ticket should you get?
The Hill Climb and Style & Elegance events need no ticket. For the Grand Prix weekend there are three ways to watch:
- Paddock (€15.75 a day, €26.25 for both days): get close to the cars, take photos and chat to the drivers.
- Grandstand (€52.50 a day): an elevated stand at the end of the starting grid, looking onto the first corner. Includes paddock access.
- VIP (€78.75 a day, €131.25 for both days): a dedicated area in the Tomba Gardens above the paddock, with free-flowing water and coffee, finger food, grandstand access and paddock access.
All prices include the booking fee. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult enter free. A dedicated shuttle bus loops between the Grandstand, the Roman Villa, Saqqajja and the Olive Gardens, and there are food stalls and toilets on site.
Tips for the day
Wear comfortable shoes: Mdina and Rabat are best explored on foot, and the shuttle makes it easy to switch between viewing spots. Follow Malta Classic on social media in the days before for the list of cars taking part, and arrive early on Sunday to secure a good spot for the start.
FAQ
When is the Mdina Grand Prix 2026?
The Grand Prix weekend is Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October 2026, as part of the Malta Classic running from 1 to 4 October.
Is the Malta Classic free to watch?
The Hill Climb (1 October) and Style & Elegance (2 October) are free. The Grand Prix weekend is ticketed, from €15.75 including the booking fee.
Do children need a ticket?
Children under 12 accompanied by an adult enter free.