On Monday, the “Ciudad de Rafaela” Circuit took a decisive step towards the return of the Turismo Carretera series with the formalisation of a provincial grant earmarked for the expansion and consolidation of the pit lane. At the ceremony, Governor Maximiliano Pullaro emphasised the strategic importance of the investment: “This is not just another grant that goes to waste. It is an investment that will pay for itself and enable hoteliers, shopkeepers and restaurateurs to enjoy weeks of busy business.”
Accompanied by the Minister for Productive Development, Gustavo Puccini; the Secretary for Tourism, Marcela Aeberhard; Mayor Leonardo Viotti; and representatives of the host institution, the governor explained that the decision was taken swiftly to ensure work could begin. “We needed to make this contribution quickly to get the work underway. But we also needed to come and explain why we made this decision, because it is a very important investment for the province,” he said.
Pullaro placed the project within the context of a broader policy: “We believe that Santa Fe has the potential to be a tourist destination. That is why we are directing investment towards infrastructure that will boost tourism.” In this vein, he highlighted the role of sport: “Sports tourism has enormous potential. And we want to see these major events take place across the whole province.”
The governor emphasised the symbolic and sporting value of the Rafaela circuit: “Bringing the TC back to an iconic location in Argentina fills all of us in Santa Fe with pride. It is the most beautiful race, and having it here again puts us back on the national map.”
Above all, however, he emphasised the economic impact. “This investment of almost 800 million pesos will translate into jobs, spending and growth. Not just during the race, but at every event held. We want Rafaela to welcome visitors, to generate activity, and for that to benefit the whole community,” he stated.
In the same vein, he linked this policy to the revival of major events in the province: “Rosario is also being revitalised through large-scale events. That is what we want to replicate: for every city to be able to host activities that generate economic and social momentum.”
A strategic project
For his part, Puccini described the project as “strategic” and praised the political decision to maintain public investment: “When these requests come in, we see that behind them lie jobs, employment and regional development. These racetracks raise our profile both nationally and internationally, and we must look after them”. The minister also highlighted the public-private partnership: “When we work together, everything runs more smoothly: the catering sector, the hospitality industry, logistics. That is what we are promoting through tourism as part of productive development.” He added: “Even in a challenging context, Santa Fe is demonstrating that it can sustain public works and create tools for growth.”
Speaking on behalf of the Tourism Department, Aeberhard highlighted the projected economic impact of the events: “Rafaela is already positioned as a national centre for motor racing. This investment enhances a key asset and will pay for itself quickly through the economic activity it generates.” As he explained, the Turismo Carretera could generate an economic impact of around 4 billion pesos, within an annual framework exceeding 7.5 billion pesos across various activities.
Meanwhile, Mayor Viotti highlighted the direct effect on employment and infrastructure: “It means jobs and economic activity for Rafaela and the region. Every construction project creates jobs and every event opens up opportunities for hundreds of families.”
The mayor also linked this investment to other ongoing developments: “We are gearing up for a great year in terms of sporting events. The South American Games, the return of motor racing and the associated infrastructure works will have a direct impact on residents’ quality of life.”
The event was also attended by Damián Sudano, vice-president of Atlético de Rafaela; Gustavo Belinde, president of the Motor Racing Sub-Committee; Roberto Giacosa, president of Enerfé; and Gabriel Corrado, head of the Rafaela Commercial and Industrial Centre, amongst other officials, who took part in a day that reaffirms the return of the “oval” to the centre of the national motor racing scene.
