Antwerp Classic Car Event Returns to City Centre After Long Hiatus
Antwerp (Eurotoday) — The iconic Antwerp Classic Car Event has made a grand return to the city centre for its 13th edition, after several years of absence. Classic car enthusiasts can feast their eyes on over a thousand vintage and luxury cars this weekend, as the event takes over the Cockerillkaai parking lot. The organisers anticipate more than 15,000 visitors throughout the weekend.
Previously held outside the city due to restrictions imposed by Antwerp’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ), the event has now returned to its original urban roots following changes in regulations. Thanks to the revised environmental policy, vehicles over 30 years old are once again allowed to enter the city centre, paving the way for the event’s much-awaited comeback.
“The rules within the Low Emission Zone have been adjusted so that classics of at least 30 years old are welcome in the city centre again. We are very happy about that,” said organiser Marc Reijntjes.
Beyond the static vehicle displays, the event offers a vibrant mix of activities for automotive aficionados. Attendees can explore an exhibition area filled with heritage vehicles, admire new models from renowned car manufacturers, and shop for automotive-themed merchandise at a dedicated market.
“There are more than 1,000 classic cars to admire. There are also many car brands that come to present their latest models and high-tech gadgets. And there is also a market with car-related articles,” Reijntjes added.
The event also hosts the highly anticipated Antwerp Classic & GT Tour, which enters its 9th edition this year. Around 170 classic and exclusive sports cars will participate in the guided tour held during the weekend, giving drivers and fans the chance to see these vehicles in motion.
“170 vintage cars and exclusive sports cars will participate in the 9th Antwerp Classic & GT Tour, a day tour on Saturday or Sunday,” Reijntjes confirmed.
Following the local festivities, the momentum carries forward with a spectacular international rally. The classic cars will be loaded onto 40 trucks and transported to Vienna. From there, 640 participants will embark on a scenic journey across Europe, stopping in Ljubljana, San Marino, Lake Como, Portofino, and Monaco before ending in Saint-Tropez.
“From there, the 640 participants will start a trip to Saint-Tropez with stops in Ljubljana, San Marino, Lake Como, Portofino and Monaco. That tour is different every year and we come everywhere, in different parts of the world,” said Reijntjes.
Among those participating in the international Tour Amical is Josse Smeets, who’s returning with his 1985 Mercedes.
“This year I’m participating with my Mercedes from 1985. I’ve been participating for a few years because I enjoy it so much. It’s become my regular group of friends,” he shared.
Historical Background
The Antwerp Classic Car Event was originally hosted in the heart of Antwerp, celebrating the charm of classic automobiles within the urban landscape. However, in 2016, the event was forced to relocate due to the city’s LEZ policies aimed at reducing pollution by restricting access to older vehicles that didn’t meet modern environmental standards.
Initially moved to Brasschaat and later established in Kapellen, the event faced criticism from car owners and organisers alike, especially since vintage cars are typically stationary throughout such gatherings and hold significant cultural value. The lack of exemptions for heritage vehicles led to ongoing dialogue with authorities that has now finally borne fruit with the updated LEZ guidelines.
The revival of the Antwerp Classic Car Event in its original location is being hailed as a win for both the car-loving community and city residents keen on celebrating automotive history.
Eurotoday is a daily online news outlet based in Belgium, offering independent coverage of European and global affairs with a uniquely European perspective.
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