Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix 2024
Racing track built in the city, cars speeding between the unforgiving concrete walls, and famous names behind all of that. With all that said, I still don’t understand why the Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix gets so little international recognition. This Danish biggest automotive event attracts many fierce drivers and thousands of spectators. Despite this, I have never seen any mention of this event on any international social media channels. If not for my friend Adam, who lives in Copenhagen, who told me about it, I would probably still be unaware of the existence of this event.
But the Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix deserves to be seen and visited. The action on the track is in the spotlight, but what happens around it may be even more interesting. Pits where cars are being repaired after the fight on track and prepared for another run, exhibitions prepared by local enthusiast organizations, and a parade of unique machines — just to mention some of the more interesting side attractions.
For me, the most interesting things happen when the tools are in action. In some racing classes, the cars are serviced by big professional teams. Other drivers must deal with only a few mechanics, friends or members of their family. But the most charming class is Formula Junior. Simple, purpose-built cars, all tools visible at first glance, and drivers working on their machines alone, or only with the help of their wife or one friend. The area dedicated to those cars doesn’t have any walls, making it even more interesting to watch.
Last year, I was super excited to welcome a new class to the event: the Tourenwagen Legenden. This class is dedicated to the former DTM machines. Last year, two generations of cars were represented. The majority belonged to the older, based on A-group specification, when the racing cars used the bodies from road cars. But one car, the Mercedes C-Class, represented the next generation, when the rules let the engineers off the leash and let them create ultimate racing machines from scratch. Purpose-built carbon fiber bodies and technologies straight from Formula 1 made them super exciting to watch, but also extremely expensive to run. That must be the reason why last year only one car was present, and this year none.
Unfortunately, while walking between the track and the pits, I might have made a mistake. All the drivers try to take the most out of their machines, but the skills and potential of their machines are very diversified. As a result, in some classes, the cars run together only after the start, and later, the faster cars just disappear into the distance. Overtaking maneuvers are very rare. Tourenwagen Legenden class was unfortunately one of them.
There are however classes which promises much more action. One of them is called SixtyFivers and is probably the most generously populated out of them. It’s hard to find more different cars than Mini and Mustang, but somehow, together they can deliver an amazing show. I regret that I missed their runs. Also, the youngtimers, may look less attractive on pictures, but make a good show.
Besides the races, there are two other ways to utilize the track. One of them is the Race for Riget. A charity event where everyone can buy a run around the track on the passenger seat of an interesting and fast car. The most exciting seat was probably located in the dark green Lamborghini driven by 9-time 24h of Le Mans winner: Tom Kristensen.
The other show, which is taking place on the track, was a parade of classic cars. The highlight of this year was a group of 12 Bugatti Type 35 commemorating the 100th anniversary of the model. The list of arguments of why this model is fascinating and important for the history of motorsport is endless, but for me this car has one characteristic which stand out from the others. Unlike most of the classic cars, those Bugattis are very rarely over-restored. Covered with fatigued paint and oil stains, they proudly present their amazing history.
It is not possible not to mention the exhibitions prepared by local clubs. Unsurprisingly, I spent the most of my time in the part occupied by Alfa Romeo Klub Danmark. The center spot of their area was devoted to the unique aluminum-bodied Giulia Sprint GTA. But I was also very happy to see a beautiful 33 and...Mito QV. Why I’m biased and happy that this little plastic Alfa starts to be recognized as something interesting? Those who follow the “Shorts” section of my page will know.
The Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix has a lot to offer to the classic cars and racing enthusiasts. Adding a visit to it to your next year’s calendar may be a good option. The track located in Bellahøj Park is only one of many attractions the city has to offer.
