This summer, England’s storied Wilton House near Salisbury will host a groundbreaking new automotive event, Concours des Légendes, from June 19 to 21, 2026. Unlike traditional concours gatherings that line vehicles on manicured lawns for silent admiration, this event is a celebration of the people who shaped motoring history. Drivers, engineers, designers, and test drivers take centre stage, sharing the stories and decisions behind some of the world’s most iconic cars.
The inaugural Legends Stage promises to be a highlight, with motorsport luminaries revisiting their careers and achievements. Richard Attwood and Derek Bell will reflect on the trials of piloting the Porsche 917 during endurance racing’s golden era, while Valentino Balboni, Lamborghini’s famed development driver, recounts four decades of shaping cars from the Miura to the Gallardo. Stefan Johansson, former Ferrari and McLaren F1 driver, will combine on-stage discussion with an exhibition of his bold, abstract motoring artwork. Renowned designers Peter Stevens, Frank Stephenson, Wayne Burgess, and Ken Okuyama will also participate, bringing insights into the creative forces behind the machines.
Beyond the stage, Concours des Légendes offers narrated car displays exploring provenance, engineering, and significance, alongside curated owner stories presented in partnership with Hagerty. Visitors can enjoy an art exhibition featuring Formula 1 helmets, watch working crafts and skills demonstrations, and take part in an auction hosted by Dore & Rees.
Wilton House provides an exclusive, elegant backdrop for the event. Ticket holders will have access to the house and its celebrated art collection, a rare opportunity as the estate will not otherwise be open to the public in 2026. The environment has been carefully curated to encourage meaningful engagement, offering a relaxed space where enthusiasts can connect with the history and personalities behind these legendary cars.
Tickets and entries for vehicles are available through the official Concours des Légendes website, with exhibitor enquiries handled via email. This new story-led concours promises to redefine how classic and collector cars are celebrated, putting the people and ideas behind the machines at the very heart of the experience.
