India’s first Formula 1 driver, Narain Karthikeyan, will take the wheel of a historic 1964 Lincoln Continental, famously known as the “Popemobile,” in the third edition of the Mille Miglia UAE. The four-day regularity rally, covering 1,600 km across the UAE’s seven emirates, is scheduled to run from 2-5 December 2024. This event is held under the patronage of the prestigious Italian “1000 Miglia” organisation.
The Lincoln Continental, owned by renowned Indian collector Yohan Poonawalla, holds significant historical importance. Originally imported to India in 1964 for Pope Paul VI’s visit during the International Eucharistic Congress, the open-top car was used for papal blessings, navigating streets thronged by thousands of devotees. Before leaving India, Pope Paul VI gifted the car to Mother Teresa, who auctioned it to raise funds for charitable causes.
The vehicle now forms part of the celebrated Yohan Poonawalla Collection, restored to its original white livery and pristine condition. Powered by a 7.0-litre V8 engine, the Lincoln, designed by Elwood Engel, was Ford’s luxurious answer to Cadillac.
Indian Legends Join Forces
Karthikeyan’s participation marks a unique collaboration of Indian motoring icons. “This event is challenging yet exhilarating. It’s not just about speed but balancing time, distance, and precision,” said Karthikeyan. He will be joined by India’s fastest woman racer, Renuka Kirpalani, as his co-driver and navigator.
Kirpalani, known for her rallying expertise, shared her excitement: “This is my first time racing a historically significant car. I look forward to this incredible experience alongside Narain.”
Yohan Poonawalla, a key figure in the Concours world and a regular participant in the Mille Miglia UAE, will also compete in the rally, driving his recently restored 1974 Jaguar E-Type Roadster Series III. The Jaguar, equipped with a 5.3-litre V12 engine, will tackle the demanding ascent and descent of Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak.
About the Rally
The Mille Miglia UAE is a regularity rally where participants must maintain specific speeds over a designated course. The event combines elements of racing and precision driving, focusing on timing rather than outright speed. This year’s edition will begin in Dubai and conclude in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the UAE.
A Celebration of Automotive Heritage
The inclusion of the “Popemobile” in the Mille Miglia UAE underscores the rally’s emphasis on automotive history and significance. Poonawalla’s collection, which includes this Lincoln Continental, has garnered international accolades, including the 2023 Classic Car Ambassador of the Year award.
For Karthikeyan and Kirpalani, the event is not just a race but a celebration of India’s rich motoring heritage on a global stage.
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