For many weeks (and months), preparations for the Steckborn Memorial Hill Climb on August 22 and 23, 2026, have been in full swing. This will be the sixth edition of this historic hill climb (2007, 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2023). The Memorial Hill Climb events pay tribute to the hill climbs of the 1950s and 1960s.
Variety and Speed
The race starts in the village of Steckborn, then the route winds its way up through several curves to Eichhölzli. Chicanes ensure that the riders don’t go too fast. There is no official timing.
Class 1 features Italian cars ranging from the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT to the Lancia Stratos and Lamborghini Countach. Also included are German sedans and sports cars, from the Audi Sport Quattro to the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 and the VW Käfer. Next up are British cars, ranging from the Austin-Healey to the Lotus, Triumph, and TVR. In total, there are about 100 vehicles.
Field 2 is dedicated to the “Memorial Corso.” Around 75 cars spanning six decades will drive up the hill. In addition, there will be about 50 motorcycles
Finally, Field 3 is reserved for touring cars and GT race cars. There you’ll find the Alpine A110, BMW M3, Chevrolet Camaro, NSU TT, and Talbot Subeeam Lotus, to name just a few examples. The U.S. cars, including the Cobra, will also be competing in this field.
Finally, Class 4 includes pre-war sports cars, the ACS Green Team, and race cars such as the Lotus Eleven. It is rounded out by formula cars from a wide variety of racing categories and eras.
A total of around 350 vehicles are expected to line up at the start on August 22 and 23, 2026.
So there will be plenty of action when the individual sub-groups take to the track on Saturday and Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m. If all goes according to plan, each driver will have the opportunity to compete in four heats.
With a Concours
In addition to the hill climbs, a Concours d’Élégance will take place in Steckborn. Anyone who dresses in a style appropriate to their vehicle’s era—that is, whose attire matches the vehicle’s model year—can participate in the Concours d’Élégance. A jury will judge the entries, and the winners will receive great prizes.
So everything is set; the organizers (and drivers) are hoping for good weather and a large crowd.
Further information is available on the Memorial Hill Climb website.
