The "Lugano Elegance" Concours will once again enliven the heart of the city of Lugano in the Swiss canton of Ticino from May 21 to 23, 2026. During these three days, Lugano will welcome some of the most fascinating classic cars in the world, but this year with unique new categories and a tailor-made route.
80 years of Bandini The highlight of this edition will be a historic celebration: the 80th anniversary of the first Bandini ever built, with a new category paying tribute to the great "artisan brands".
40 cars in six classes
40 cars can take part in the Concours. They are divided into six different classes, which together cover a century of automotive history:
- Classes 1 to 4: Pre-War & Classic Cars (1900-1970)
A journey through the masterpieces that have shaped the automobile. - Class 5: Youngtimers & supercars (1980-2025)
Modern icons and instant classics that have shaped their time. - Class 6: Homage to Ilario Bandini
The special class dedicated to the ingenious master builder. This class will be juried by the person best qualified to do so: Michele Bandini, grandson of the great manufacturer. He himself will chair the jury for this class and evaluate the exhibited masterpieces.
Proven evaluation methodology
Chris Kramer and Nigel Matthews have developed a new judging system over the last three years and introduced it worldwide. The M100 method guarantees fairness for the rarest masterpieces. The evaluation is based on the assumption of perfection (100 points), with penalty points awarded exclusively for actual defects and limited numerically. The key is the 5 bonus points awarded for design, rarity and provenance to ensure that the vehicle with the greatest historical significance wins.
In addition to Lugano Elegance, the Amelia Island Concours, Salon Privé and the Las Vegas Concours at the Wynn also use this approach.
Tailor-made program
The program begins on Thursday, May 21, with registration, a welcome brunch and an exclusive opening parade, culminating in an opening dinner. Friday, May 22, is dedicated to the "Lugano Elegance Tour", a journey that combines driving pleasure with cultural discoveries.
Saturday, May 23, is the highlight of the event: the Concours d'Elegance in the lively Lugano Elegance Village, the awards ceremony in Piazza Riforma and the closing gala dinner with the presentation of the "Best of Show" award.
Further information and the opportunity to register can be found on the event website.
