The Slow Rally: Where Coming Last Means Winning

When you think of a rally, speed is usually the name of the game. Drivers push their cars to the limit, racing against the clock in the hope of finishing first.

But there is one rally where everything is turned on its head.

Welcome to the Slow Rally in Guastalla, Italy – where the winner is the car that comes last!

A Rally With a Difference

The Slow Rally, or Rally Lento, takes place in the historic town of Guastalla in the Reggio Emilia region of Northern Italy. The event brings together classic cars, community spirit, fun and, most importantly, charity.

The idea is wonderfully simple: a collection of classic, sports and unusual cars take part in a timed circuit around the streets of Guastalla. Rather than trying to complete the course as quickly as possible, competitors aim to take their time.

The slowest car to successfully complete the course is crowned the winner.

As the event slogan puts it:

“Vince chi arriva ultimo!” – “The last one to arrive wins!”

Classic Cars, Italian Streets and Plenty of Fun

Part of what makes the Slow Rally so special is the incredible variety of cars taking part.

Previous events have featured Ferraris, Jaguars, Porsches, Mercedes, MGs, VW Beetles, a Cadillac and even a military Jeep. There is also a particularly memorable olive-green 1970s Fiat 500 belonging to event organiser Gino Tosi.

The cars gather around Piazza Mazzini, in the heart of Guastalla, before taking on several laps around the historic centre.

A leaderboard keeps spectators up to date with the times – although, in this unusual competition, seeing your name at the bottom is exactly what you're hoping for!

More Than Just a Car Rally

Behind the fun and unusual format is a serious charitable purpose.

The Slow Rally supports Anffas in the Reggio Emilia area of Italy and Fairplay in Chesterfield, UK. Both organisations provide support to people with disabilities and their families.

One of the most memorable aspects of the event is the opportunity for people supported by Anffas to take part as passengers in the cars.

For the lucky passengers, it isn't simply a ride around the town. It's an opportunity to experience some remarkable cars, enjoy the atmosphere of the event and become part of a unique community celebration.

That's what makes the Slow Rally so much more than a competition.

Morclean's Support for the Slow Rally

Morclean has supported the Slow Rally for many years, with Managing Director Peter Morley continuing to contribute to the event and its fundraising efforts.

Morclean's involvement reflects the company's wider commitment to supporting worthwhile community and charitable initiatives.

Over the years, the event has continued to grow while retaining the same basic principle: bring people together, enjoy some fantastic cars and raise money to support people who need it.

Morclean's donations and fundraising associated with the event benefit both Fairplay in Chesterfield and Anffas in Italy.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Slow Rally

The 12th Slow Rally is scheduled to take place in October 2026 in Guastalla, with Morclean once again supporting the event.

The event's longevity is testament to the enthusiasm of everyone involved – from the organisers and drivers to the volunteers, sponsors, charities and spectators.

And while there may be plenty of beautiful and valuable cars on the starting line, the real prize is the difference the event can make.

When Last Place Is the Best Place to Be

In a world where we're often encouraged to go faster, achieve more and get to the front of the queue, the Slow Rally offers a refreshing change of pace.

Here, taking your time is the objective.

Coming last is something to celebrate.

And behind all the laughter, unusual racing and impressive cars is a genuine commitment to helping others.

That's why Morclean is proud to continue supporting the Slow Rally in Guastalla – an event that proves sometimes, the best way to win is to come last.

If you would like to donate please head to the Just Giving Page here.