Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a race?

No. This is a road rally and social adventure, not a race. There is no prize for arriving first. The emphasis is on the journey, the cars, the people, the laughs and getting everyone to Turin and back.

What is a typical day like?

Each morning we will have an agreed start point and a suggested departure time. Those who want to travel in convoy can set off together, with a couple of planned stops during the day to regroup, refuel, have a coffee and catch up.

You do not have to stay with the convoy. If you want to visit somewhere on the way, take a different scenic route, stop for longer somewhere, or meet friends or family who live close to the route, that is completely fine. The idea is that everyone reaches the same overnight destination, but how you spend the day is up to you.

What happens if I get separated from the group?

We plan to use location sharing during the rally so participants can see roughly where the other cars are. That makes it much easier to regroup if someone takes a wrong turn, falls behind or decides to stop somewhere along the way.

When is the rally?

We plan to leave on 20 June 2027 and return on 30 June 2027.

Where are we going?

The planned route runs from the Channel through Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Switzerland before reaching Turin, then returns through the Alps and France.

The current overnight stops are Bastogne, Fort Schoenenbourg, Konstanz, Locarno, Turin, Val d’Isère/Tignes, Dijon, Reims and Calais. Full details are on the Route page.

Why Turin?

Turin is at the heart of the 1969 film The Italian Job, so it is the natural destination for this rally. We also plan to be there during the period of the Festa di San Giovanni celebrations.

Will we visit locations connected with the film?

That is certainly the intention. We will add more detail as the Turin programme and local arrangements are finalised.

What cars can take part?

There are four main categories:

• Minis: worth £1,000 or less, or at least 20 years old.
• Cars from the film: any model featured in The Italian Job is welcome, regardless of age or value. Supercars are welcome too.
• Italian cars: worth £1,000 or less, or at least 20 years old.
• Bangers and other cars: worth £1,000 or less, or at least 20 years old.

The important thing is that the car is road-legal, properly insured and suitable for a long European road trip.

Can I share a car?

Absolutely. Sharing a car is encouraged and is often more fun. It also helps spread the cost of buying, preparing and running the car.

Can I join on my own?

Yes. Solo participants are welcome. We can try to introduce people who are looking for a co-driver or a place in another car, although any arrangement between participants will be entirely up to them.

Do I need mechanical skills?

No. Some basic knowledge is useful, particularly with an older or cheaper car, but it is not essential. We would strongly recommend suitable European breakdown cover and making sure your car is properly serviced before departure.

What about accommodation?

We will recommend places to stay at each overnight stop so that people who want to can stay together or nearby, but you are completely free to make your own arrangements.

You might choose another hotel, an Airbnb, a campsite, a B&B or stay with friends or family. Most evenings we will aim to suggest an optional group meal or meeting place so everyone has the chance to get together regardless of where they are staying.

What does it cost to take part?

The current plan is deliberately simple:

In addition, participants pay their own costs for the car, insurance, breakdown cover, fuel, crossings, tolls or vignettes, accommodation, food and drink.

That means you can keep the trip relatively inexpensive or spend more on hotels, restaurants and sightseeing if you prefer.

How does the charity fundraising work?

Each participant will make a minimum £250 charity contribution to one of the three charities selected for the rally. Anyone who wants to raise more will also be encouraged to set up their own fundraising page and involve friends, family and supporters.

Do I arrange my own Channel crossing?

Yes. Participants will be responsible for booking and paying for their own crossing. We will provide the planned timings so that people who want to travel together can book suitable services.

What documents will I need?

You will need the appropriate driving licence, vehicle documentation and insurance for the countries we travel through. We will provide a practical checklist nearer the event, but each participant is responsible for making sure they and their vehicle meet the legal requirements for European travel.

Do I have to decorate the car?

No, but we strongly encourage it. Decorating the cars was a huge part of the atmosphere on the previous rally and helps make the whole trip more memorable. Themes, stickers, costumes and general silliness are all welcome, provided the car remains safe and road-legal.

Do I have to stay with the group all the time?

No. This is your road trip as well as ours. Join the convoy when you want to, leave it when you want to, make your own stops and explore places that interest you. The shared overnight destinations and social side give the trip its structure, but there is plenty of freedom in between.

Does registering interest commit me to taking part?

No. Registering your interest is completely obligation-free. It simply means we can keep you informed as the final route, hotels, charities and event details are confirmed.