In the heart of the Mediterranean, where baroque architecture and a sea-swept skyline set the stage, a unique convergence of automotive artistry and cultural heritage unfolds each year: the Valletta Concours d’Elegance. Dubbed “The Concours of the Mediterranean,” this distinguished event has swiftly earned a place among the world’s most enchanting celebrations of classic motoring.
Held in the breathtaking St George’s Square, a 16th-century architectural jewel in Malta’s capital, the 2025 edition of the Valletta Concours welcomed more than 18,000 visitors, all drawn to the rarefied world of vintage and classic automobiles. But this is no ordinary show. Here, art meets art—mechanical masterpieces share the limelight with fine artists, and the square transforms into a gallery of elegance, nostalgia, and passion.
A Showcase of Excellence
This year’s Concours presented an exceptional display: 65 vintage and classic cars and 14 motorcycles, each carefully curated and judged by an international panel of 24 experts. Under the discerning leadership of automotive historian and concours veteran Jeremy Jackson-Sytner, the judging panel included designers, restorers, journalists, and global concours organizers. Their shared mission: to evaluate authenticity, restoration quality, historical value, and, above all, elegance.
Among the standout winners was Yohan Poonawalla’s majestic 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith, which claimed both the Best in Class: Elegance and the coveted Best in Show – International Award. From the local scene, Mark Borg’s 1968 Alfa Romeo Spider “Osso di Seppia” by Pininfarina was equally triumphant, winning Best Restored Car, Second in Sports Car Class, and Best in Show – Maltija.
Class Highlights & Firsts
The 2025 edition introduced two new competitive classes: Vintage & Classic Motorcycles and Road Racing Vehicles—both of which received an enthusiastic response and are expected to become staples in future editions.
Additional Best in Class winners included a stunning lineup:
1923 Riley Redwing
1951 Hillman Minx
1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1
1986 Porsche Turbo
1958 MGA
1948 Bristol 400
1991 Honda NSX
1969 Chevrolet Corvette
1990 Mazda MX-5
1977 Renault 6
1966 Austin A60
1951 Vincent Black Shadow (motorcycle)
1936 AJS Model 26 (motorcycle)
1950 Tri-ang Buick Pedal Car
Art in Motion – Literally
What truly distinguishes Valletta Concours is its interdisciplinary spirit. During the event, eight Maltese and international artists captured the beauty of these cars live in St George’s Square as part of a Live Painting Competition, won by local artist Nathan Saliba. Simultaneously, a week-long group art exhibition took place at Malta’s Chamber of Commerce, featuring sixteen artists and reinforcing the event’s theme: where fine art and automotive art meet.
International Recognition & Awards
The presence of FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) and ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano) further cemented Valletta’s rising global prestige. FIVA President Mr. Tiddo Bresters praised the concours for meeting international standards and presented the FIVA Award to William Pace for his charming Renault 6. Meanwhile, Sig. Fabio Berardi of ASI awarded the ASI Trophy to Giuseppe Sauria for his elegant 1938 Lancia Aprilia by Farina.
Looking Ahead
With 2025 now behind us, organizers are already planning the 2026 Valletta Concours d’Elegance. New classes and exciting additions will be announced shortly, and applications for classic car entries are now open. For those passionate about heritage motoring set against a world heritage backdrop, Valletta offers a concours experience like no other.
For more information or to register your vehicle for the 2026 edition:
Email: vallettaconcours.event@gmail.com
Website: www.vallettaconcours.com
Where elegance meets heritage, and art meets motion – the Valletta Concours is not just an event, but a Mediterranean celebration of timeless beauty.
