#United States #Monterey #Concorso Italiano #Italian Cars #Monterey Car Week

Concorso Italiano 40th Anniversary Celebration

Concorso Italiano recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with a vibrant event that paid homage to Italian automotive artistry and culture, held at Bayonet Black Horse during Monterey Car Week. Hundreds of enthusiasts basked in perfect weather, enjoying stunning views of the Monterey Bay while marveling at an impressive array of Italian cars, motorbikes, and unique custom builds.

The event kicked off with the National Anthem sung by Angela Roach, followed by engaging presentations from the Festa Italia Queen Bella Cutino and the princesses of Monterey. Hosted by Matt Stone and Colleen Sheehan, the celebration was filled with excitement as influential personalities like Chief Judge Gary Bobileff participated, contributing to the event's vibrant atmosphere. Matt Stone aptly noted that Concorso remains a beacon of Italian style and inclusivity.

Awards and Recognition

Among the highlights, the coveted 'Best of Show' award went to the mesmerizing 1947 Cisitalia Aerodynamica Coupé from the Lawrence Auriana Collection. Other notable winners included Ethan Stark's 1997 Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster, which received the Valentino Balboni award, and Carl and Cindy Baker's 1956 Pegaso Z103 Panoramica Coupé, which earned the Meguiar's Best Finish Award. The passion and dedication from past chairmen and current Chairwoman Tanya Kosta were evident as they celebrated milestones alongside the loyal participants of this esteemed event.

The Ferrari Club of America and Pantera International also held independent judging, successfully recognizing their members with awards, further emphasizing the deep-rooted community dynamics within automotive circles.

Specialty Displays

Specialty displays formed an awe-inspiring segment of the day, especially the Cisitalia 80th Anniversary Display, including extraordinary vehicles that tell the story of innovative design and excellence in automotive history. The display curator Ed Godshalk highlighted the significance of the showcase, bringing forth rare models like the 1947 Nuvolari Spyder that captured the attention of many.

The Italian Legacy Display provided rich context to a century of design prowess, exhibiting gems like the 1925 Lancia Lambda and various iconic Ferrari models. This display harmoniously aligned with the primary focus of celebrating Italian automotive heritage.

Italian Marques Shine Bright

The event showcased a powerful presence of Italian automotive brands, displaying notable cars from manufacturers, including Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and more. Spectators were particularly entranced by a magnificent Enzo Ferrari and an exhilarating collection of race-prepped Ferraris, stirring nostalgia and admiration among fans and attendees alike.

Among the notable exhibits was the Lamborghini Diablo 35th anniversary display, featuring spectacular cars and signed memorabilia from legendary drivers, including Valentino Balboni. The celebrations not only honored historical creations but also looked towards the future with cutting-edge automotive technology prominently showcased, including advanced hybrid models from Ferrari and Drako Motors' groundbreaking 2026 Dragon hyper-SUV.

Lifestyle and Experiences

Beyond the automotive displays, the event encapsulated lifestyle and culture through dynamic fashion shows celebrating Italian and American styles, an enthusiastic marketplace offering unique goods, and diverse culinary options presented by a selection of food trucks. Attendees were privy to the exclusive hospitality offerings, further contributing to the immersive experience of enjoying Italian exuberance and camaraderie.

As the conclusion of the day unveiled, Chairman Tanya Kosta announced plans for the 41st annual Concorso Italiano, scheduled for August 15, 2026, signifying the event's enduring legacy and growing popularity.

Conclusion

Concorso Italiano stands as a testament to the passion, elegance, and heritage deeply rooted in Italian automotive culture. It's more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community, artistry, and the relentless spirit of design excellence that captivates enthusiasts around the globe. With a fervent commitment to continue honoring this rich tradition, Concorso Italiano promises an enthusiastic next chapter for its patrons and automotive aficionados.

For more information and updates about future events, visit Concorso Italiano's official website. Follow along on their social media channels to stay connected and witness the journey of Italian automotive excellence unfold.