ASI Donates to Amatrice for New “Motor Park” Development

Historic Italian Automotive Club Donates Funds for Motor Park in Amatrice

On February 10th, the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (A.S.I.) – Italian Historic Automobile Club – formalized a significant donation to the Comune (Municipality) of Amatrice, a town still recovering from the devastating 2016 earthquake. The agreement was signed before Notary Vincenzo Lecaudito Muller in Rome, with A.S.I. President Dr. Alberto Scuro and Federal Councilor, and President of the Rieti Historic Cars Club, Attorney Costanzo Truini, among those present.

The funds, bolstered by additional contributions from the Lazio Region, will facilitate the creation of the “Parco dei Motori A.S.I. – Automotoclub Storico Italiano” (A.S.I. Historic Automobile Club Motor Park) in Amatrice. The park will be built by revitalizing the former miniature park adjacent to the Church of Sant’Agostino, a space that previously served as a community hub within the historic center of Amatrice.

The donation represents a crucial step in the ongoing revitalization of Amatrice, a town that became a symbol of the 2016 central Italy earthquake. The park is envisioned as a space not only for celebrating automotive history but also for fostering social interaction and economic recovery.

“The uncommon sensitivity and prestigious attention shown once again by the Italian Historic Automobile Club towards our territory,” stated Attorney Truini, “together with the inclusion of the Municipality of Rieti in the A.N.C.I. Città dei Motori circuit (National Association of Italian Municipalities, Cities of Motors), represents yet another authoritative recognition for the world of motorsports in our Province.”

Truini continued, expressing gratitude to President Scuro, the entire A.S.I. Federal Council, all A.S.I. Members and club presidents throughout Italy, the Rieti Historic Cars Club, Amatrice Mayor Giorgio Cortellesi, and the municipal officials of Amatrice. “Thanks to all of them, the dream of the ‘Motor Park’ is becoming a reality, contributing to the rebirth of social life in Amatrice, tragically struck by the earthquake. This territory will also be the protagonist of numerous motorsport initiatives, including the 5th edition of ‘Amatrice-Cardito’ and ‘Amatrice Classic.’”

The A.S.I., founded in 1968, is a leading organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Italy’s rich automotive heritage. It represents over 200 historic car and motorcycle clubs across the country, and its activities range from organizing rallies and concours d’elegance to advocating for legislation that supports the preservation of classic vehicles.

The choice of Amatrice as the location for the park is particularly poignant. The town suffered immense damage in the 2016 earthquake, which claimed the lives of nearly 300 people and left much of the historic center in ruins. The earthquake had a profound impact on the local economy, which relied heavily on tourism. The “Parco dei Motori” is intended to help revitalize the town by attracting visitors and creating new economic opportunities.

The planned park will not only showcase classic Italian automobiles and motorcycles but will also serve as a venue for events, exhibitions, and educational programs. Organizers envision a space where enthusiasts can gather to share their passion for automotive history and where the local community can come together to celebrate its cultural heritage.

The “Amatrice-Cardito” rally, a challenging event that takes drivers through the mountainous terrain surrounding Amatrice, and the “Amatrice Classic,” a more leisurely tour for classic car enthusiasts, are expected to be key attractions at the park. These events will not only draw visitors to the town but also provide a boost to the local economy.

The project represents a collaborative effort between the A.S.I., the Comune of Amatrice, the Lazio Region, and various local organizations. This proves a testament to the power of partnership and the shared commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing communities affected by natural disasters.

The A.S.I.’s donation and the subsequent development of the “Parco dei Motori” are seen as a significant step towards restoring a sense of normalcy and hope to Amatrice, demonstrating that even in the face of tragedy, it is possible to rebuild and create a brighter future. The park is expected to open to the public in the coming years, becoming a lasting symbol of resilience and a celebration of Italy’s automotive legacy.