The Mtarfa, Rabat and Mdina local councils have declared that they are all against the Mdina Grand Prix, which is taking place between the 13 and 16 October 2022.

This disapproval arose due to what they called the severe inconvenience for the residents and the serious danger resulting from the congestion that is created during the Grand Prix.

The classic car race weekend was first hosted in October 2007, when French entrepreneur and classic car enthusiast Thierry Giovannoni organised the first edition on the Valletta ring road.  Since 2011, the Grand Prix has taken place in and around Mdina, with Malta’s old capital being the backdrop for the event.

The local councils said that they have nothing against the activity itself, but added they believe that it should be held elsewhere.

The local councils appealed to the authorities concerned to take any necessary action to find an alternative place for this activity.

If their appeal is ignored they stated that they reserve the right to take further steps to safeguard the interests and commonwealth of their residents.

PN MP Adrian Delia was among those to react to the objections, saying that something doesn’t add up.

“So, we allow massive parties throughout summer, we allow mass events with thousands throughout the year, we allow activities of all sorts for commercial pecuniary interest, then we shackle an event which adds value, brings passion and beauty together and which enhances our touristic cultural calendar,” he said.

“Something doesn’t tally,” he added.

Car enthusiasts alike have also greeted the objections with anger and disappointment.