The Axis Grand Prix: Reinventing the Mille Miglia in 1940

This episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, explores the 1940 Mille Miglia, reinvented by Paul Baxa, a history professor at Ave Maria University in Florida. Drawing from Baxa's book 'Motorsport and Fascism,' the episode examines the race's utilization by Mussolini's fascist regime for propaganda. The 1940 edition, held on a nine-lap circuit, emerged after a fatal 1938 accident forced the cancellation of the original open-road race. The episode details the political and sporting context, emphasizing the race's role in showcasing Italian automotive advancements, fascist values, and its evolution amidst World War II. Key figures, controversies, and the eventual success of the race are discussed, highlighting its impact on motorsport history. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== 00:00 The 1940 Mille Miglia: A Historical Context 01:31 The 1938 Tragedy and Its Aftermath 02:50 Fascism and Motorsport: A Symbiotic Relationship 05:32 Reinventing the Mille Miglia 06:25 The 1940 Race: An Anomaly 09:10 Challenges and Controversies 20:44 The Race Day: April 28, 1940 22:38 Post-Race Reflections and Research 26:19 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements ==================== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: Visit Our Website Become a VIP at: Patreon Online Magazine: Gran Touring Follow us on Social: Instagram This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.