PVGP Plans a Triumphant Return to Its Legendary Schenley Park Race Circuit with the Announced Opening of Panther Hollow Bridge for the 2026 PVGP

Photo of PVGP racers on Panther Hollow Bridge by Omar Bakth

The 44th Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is set to roar back this summer as Race Weekend returns July 18–19 to the full, legendary street circuit in Schenley Park. The City of Pittsburgh just announced that the Panther Hollow Bridge will be opened for our event. Vintage racers will once again thunder across the bridge, thread past the park’s stone walls, and charge through the golf course in front of 100,000 spectators.

As the nation’s only remaining vintage street race, the PVGP features legendary marques including MG, Porsche, Lotus, BMW, Austin-Healey, Triumph, and Jaguar. Vehicle eligibility has been expanded through 1987, updating select traditional marques and welcoming additional sports cars to the grid, with final approval by the PVGP Competition Committee. In addition, the Sports Cars Over 2.0 Liters limit has been increased to 3.3 Liters. Racer Registration is now being accepted – Register Here.

We sincerely appreciate everyone’s patience and support as we rerouted the circuit last year. With the bridge reopening, we are excited to return to our world-famous course and restore the full Schenley Park racing experience. Due to logistical constraints in Schenley Park, we are unable to stage a hillclimb in conjunction with the 2026 vintage races; however, we are aware of the popularity and enthusiasm for its return and are exploring options to include a hillclimb as part of our future race event offerings.

Start/Finish Line Returns to Phipps Conservatory

The Start/Finish Line returns to its original 1983 home between Phipps Conservatory and the Schenley Park Visitor’s Center, restoring this iconic landmark as the centerpiece of on-track action. The move not only honors our heritage but also creates significantly more viewing space, giving more fans the chance to experience the thrill of race starts and checkered flags up close.

Adding to the excitement, our Special Exhibition Groups will be displayed in front of Phipps, featuring Drifters, the BMW Ring Taxi, and Collegiate Formula Racers. They’ll take to the track during the lunch break on both Saturday and Sunday, delivering high-energy demonstrations that you won’t want to miss.

Honoring Jaguar as the Marque of the Year

The official 2026 poster has just been unveiled, created by renowned UK automotive artist Mark Morgan. It captures Steven Davison in his 1962 Jaguar E-Type Low-Drag Coupe, one of our regular competitors, charging across the finish line in front of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where the Start/Finish will return this year.

The International Jaguar Festival will be joining the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Race Weekend. Acclaimed Jaguar designer Ian Callum will serve as Grand Marshal and present concours awards.

Hosted by Jaguar Clubs of North America and the Jaguar Club of Pittsburgh, the festival brings together classic and modern Jaguars for concours judging, driving events, and social gatherings, all benefiting charity. With wheel-to-wheel racing on city streets and more than 3,000 show cars on display, there is no greater stage for Jaguar enthusiasts. Register early and be part of this exceptional celebration of speed, style, and heritage. Details