A vibrant crowd of 5,000 spectators packed the grandstands of Rome's historic Via Appia racetrack to celebrate the centenary of Capannelle's landmark 1926 renovation. Open to the public, the event honored the facility’s stunning Art Nouveau architecture and marked a major comeback centered on elite horse racing - the track's natural heritage - with the clear ambition of soon returning the prestigious Derby back to Rome.

The opening ceremony kicked off with remarks from public officials and a stirring rendition of the Italian national anthem by the Rome Capital Police Band, drawing a collective sigh of relief and closing a multi-year chapter of administrative hurdles that had threatened to push the sprawling 140-hectare green oasis toward total decay.

Attendees enjoyed newly revived spaces like the Portoghesi-designed "Derby Terrace," an impeccably restored "Club House" hosting an equestrian philatelic exhibition, guided tours for families, and roving street performers. On the racing side, the prestigious Premio Scheibler was captured by Hercule Star - wearing the colors of Alma Racing, owned by Napoli soccer manager Max Allegri - while the British-bred filly Topaz clinched the Ubaldo Pandolfi Centenary Trophy, signaling a renewed international prestige for Rome's racing scene.