Pirelli has announced that after more than 25 years, it is set to once again provide sponsorship to the Classic Marathon rally, a qualifying round of the 2013 HERO Cup in association with EFG International.

The Classic Marathon starts in Ypres in Belgium and finishes in Cortina d’ Ampezzo in Italy and is currently run every other year by the Classic Rallying Association – a division of HERO.

‘History is repeating itself,’ said Tomas de Vargas Machuca, the joint Managing Director of HERO, The Historic Endurance Rallying Organisation. He added: ‘Twenty five years ago the Classic Marathon was the first event of its kind ever to be held.’

Paul Hembery, Global Head of Motorsport at Pirelli said: ‘The Classic Marathon is one of the most famous classic car events held anywhere in the world and it gives us great pleasure to be supporting the event once again.’

Borgo Scopeto and Caparzo wineries, one of Tuscany’s most notable wine producers, will also support the Rally. The Pirelli Classic Marathon will visit Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland and is set to finish in Italy with an awards dinner at the exclusive ‘Sci Club 18’, one of Italy’s most important ski clubs.