The 2025 Amelia Concours d’Elegance

The 30th annual Amelia Concours d’Elegance, held on March 8, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, was a spectacle of automotive history and design, drawing collectors, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the world. Showcasing over 240 historically significant automobiles across 35 meticulously curated classes, this year’s event continued its legacy as one of the premier concours in the world.

A Historic Shift and Unwavering Enthusiasm

Originally scheduled for March 9, the event was preemptively moved to Saturday due to anticipated inclement weather. While this last-minute change posed logistical challenges, the swift adaptation ensured attendees could enjoy the event under clear skies, enhancing the overall experience. The enthusiasm remained palpable as thousands of spectators gathered to witness automotive artistry at its finest.

Honoring a Racing Legend

Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Hélio Castroneves at the 2025 The Amelia. Photo by D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

One of Hélio Castroneves winning Indy cars. Photo by D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

This year’s honoree was none other than four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Hélio Castroneves, whose illustrious career and dynamic personality have made him a fan favorite in motorsports. During the celebration, Castroneves expressed his appreciation for the synergy between racing and concours events, stating, “There’s a deep connection between people who love racing and those who appreciate concours cars. The Amelia is where those passions intersect, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”

The Best of Show: Automotive Royalty

2025 Best of Show, Concours d’Elegance, awarded to this breathtaking 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B. Photo by D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

The highly anticipated Best of Show awards went to two remarkable vehicles that exemplified both elegance and motorsport heritage. The Best of Show, Concours d’Elegance, was awarded to a breathtaking 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B, chassis No. 412028, a vehicle believed to be one of the prototypes for the legendary 1938 Mille Miglia. This stunning pre-war masterpiece captivated judges and spectators alike with its sophisticated coachwork and racing pedigree.

2025 Best in Show Concours de Sport: The historically significant 1967 Lotus 49 is the second Lotus 49 built. Photo by D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

On the motorsport side, the Best of Show, Concours de Sport, was bestowed upon a 1967 Lotus 49, chassis No. 49/2. This historic Formula 1 machine, which debuted at Zandvoort in 1967 under the skilled hands of Jim Clark, marked the first appearance of the revolutionary Cosworth DFV engine. The car’s significant contribution to motorsports history made it a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.

Beyond the Lawn: A Weekend of Automotive Excitement

This 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV sold at auction for $4.46 million. Photo D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione sold at auction for $9.465 million. Photo D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

While the main concours was the centerpiece of the weekend, attendees were treated to a variety of engaging activities that further celebrated automotive culture. The Broad Arrow auction saw over 100 extraordinary vehicles cross the block, drawing collectors eager to acquire rare and significant automobiles. The Friday and Saturday Broad Arrow auctions resulted in $61.7 million in sales. The Ride and Drive experience allowed guests to get behind the wheel of both classic and contemporary vehicles, offering a hands-on appreciation for automineering.

Additionally, the event featured insightful panel discussions, exclusive manufacturer displays, and interactive exhibits that provided a deeper look into the past, present, and future of automotive excellence.

Continuing a Tradition of Giving

Saturday morning sunrise at The Amelia. Photo D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

Since its inception in 1996, The Amelia has remained committed to philanthropy, raising millions for charitable organizations. This year’s event upheld that tradition, with proceeds benefiting numerous non-profits dedicated to education, medical research, and community support. To date, the concours has donated over $4 million, reinforcing its status as not only a celebration of automotive artistry but also a force for good.

Richard Papy talks with judges enroute to winning Best in Class with Dale Critz’s / Critz Motorsports 1935 BMW 315 Race Car known as the Willis Wonder. Photo D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Amelia. Photo by D. Paul Graham / imageGRAHAM, llc

As the sun set on another remarkable year, attendees departed Amelia Island with cherished memories and a shared anticipation for the 2026 event. The Amelia Concours d’Elegance continues to set the standard for automotive events on the east coast, blending history, craftsmanship, and camaraderie in a way that few others can match. For those who missed this year’s festivities, mark your calendars for next year’s event—it promises to be yet another extraordinary chapter in the ongoing story of automotive excellence.

South Magazine’s intrepid photographer and resident petrol-head was once again at  The Amelia Concours d’Elegance to capture the beauty of some of the most beautiful cars in the world. Follow Paul’s automotive work on Instagram @i_shoot_fast_cars and see curated automotive fine art at www.GalleryGraham.com