May 9th - To the Capital, Rome

May 9th, Forte dei Marmi - Rome, 403km

Bidding farewell to the seaside resort, we headed south. Our destination: the capital, Rome.



First, we visited the city of Pisa. We were granted special access to the square with the Leaning Tower. While this is common in classic car rallies, the combination of modern models and ancient architecture is quite intriguing.



As we neared Rome, we inevitably got caught in a massive traffic jam. Even the national police couldn't manage this. Older models stalled here and there. The cars were probably less of a hardship than the heat; it was a summer day with temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, and it was very hot...



Once through the traffic, we were in the heart of Rome. Dusk. The city was bathed in a soft pink hue. After driving past St. Peter's Square, a plaza on a hill overlooking the outskirts of Rome would be the resting place for the raging bulls tonight.

We drivers took a shuttle bus to the Excelsior hotel in the city. A banquet was held at "Santo Spirito in Sassia," attended by Roman dignitaries and VIPs.

May 10th - Raging Bulls and Beef

May 10th, Rome - Bologna, 440km

Slightly irritating the Romans on their way to work, we headed north on the autostrada. First, we visited the Duomo in the mountain city of Orvieto, a personal favorite. Amidst the cheers of children, we traced the Mille Miglia route and headed north on country roads.

As this was the longest leg of the tour, the police were also in a hurry. On country roads with a 100 km/h speed limit, they were easily exceeding 150 km/h. Consequently, the participants' driving also heated up!



For lunch, we indulged in Tuscan specialties at Il Borro, a property managed by Salvatore Ferragamo. The four types of mozzarella and the Bistecca alla Fiorentina were particularly outstanding, prompting us to exclaim, "We wish we could have this for dinner!" Wine, but I couldn't drink...



As such, the Futa Pass (famous from the Mille Miglia), which we had been looking forward to in the afternoon, was wet. Nevertheless, I attacked it with the Gallardo, which had become a part of my body (or so I deluded myself) over these three days. Overtaking slow 12-cylinder cars, I played with the local racers. I rediscovered how enjoyable a manual transmission in a supercar could be. Lost in the moment, I suddenly saw the city of Bologna.

A large crowd lined the streets. Waving flags, they urged us to rev our engines. The sound of Lamborghinis echoed through the town. Strangely, instead of feeling "we've finally arrived," I felt "we're home."

Tonight, perhaps in preparation for the grand party tomorrow, a casual dinner was held.

May 11th - Next Stop: The Centennial

May 11th, Bologna - Sant'Agata Bolognese, 35km

Piazza Maggiore was crowded from the morning. Understandably so, as the large square, usually bustling with Bolognese residents, was almost entirely occupied by raging bulls. Only participants, guests, staff, and media were allowed into the square. If you weren't careful walking in front of the cars, you'd often hear, "Excuse me, I'm trying to take a photo, please move!"

In the morning, there was a Concours d'Elegance. Judges in hats and blazers meticulously examined the cars, focusing on the older models. Owners were instructed by the judges to turn on their lights or rev their engines. At any concours, following the judges and observing their assessments is the most informative and enjoyable part.

In the afternoon, the final mission finally began: a parade run of 35 kilometers to the headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese.



As expected of their hometown, we received a warm welcome in Bologna and in every town we passed through. Everyone seemed to be smiling and shouting, "Welcome home!"

The main gate of the headquarters came into view.



First, the production version of the "Urus" was officially announced.

Next, as a roar echoed, the "Veneno" proceeded down the red carpet in the venue.

And then, another car entered, emitting a different exhaust note from the Veneno...Egoista!

Yes, the one-off concept car designed to resemble a jet fighter, for a single occupant. I couldn't help but exclaim:

"Countach!!!!"

The 50th Anniversary: A New Starting Point

Lamborghini will undoubtedly continue to surprise us. The 50th anniversary is merely a milestone, a turning point towards the 100th.

This is not just about indulging in nostalgia. It's a celebration of a milestone. For the next 50 years, let's organize our past into stories and look forward with even greater determination!

The Grand Tour was, in essence, their declaration.