Concorso Italiano - 2025 - MyCarQuest.com

by Mike Gulett –

Is it too early to start thinking about Monterey Car Week? I say NO it is not too early. So, today I am sharing with you some of what will be happening at Concorso Italiano, one of the major events during this special week. I also am sharing some photos from years past and in the summaries below I borrow heavily from Concorso Italiano’s press releases.

The first Grifo made - the prototype, No. 001

The first Iso Grifo made – with Piero Rivolta in red – 2015 – Mike Gulett

Overview

This year, International Car Week has taken over as the new event owner, bringing a fresh vision while honoring the event’s storied past. Concorso Italiano has announced their 40th anniversary car event will take place Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Bayonet Black Horse, on California’s scenic Monterey Peninsula. Held during the famed Monterey Car Week, the celebration of Italian cars and style will reunite owners, collectors, and enthusiasts for a day of camaraderie and stunning vehicles including Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Iso/Bizzarrini and more.

Known for unique features that educate and inform guests about the wonderful world of Italian cars, the event will feature automotive milestones including the 80th anniversary of Cisitalia, the 60th anniversary of Iso Grifo, the 50th anniversary of the Ferrari 308, and several other significant anniversaries.

Co-emcees Matt Stone and Colleen Sheehan

The Stone-Sheehan duo will be the voices of Concorso Italiano throughout the event and lead the ever-popular afternoon awards ceremony during the Concorso Italiano 40th Anniversary celebration.

Matt Stone is a journalist, author of over a dozen books (with more on the way), former editor of Motor Trend Classic Magazine, and was a familiar voice for seven years on SPEED/Fox Sports’ Barrett-Jackson auction broadcast.

Colleen Sheehan’s journey into the world of classic cars began when she was just eleven years old, driving her 1930 BMW at Monterey Car Week. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for vintage vehicles and led her to start Next Generation Classics, a dealership dedicated to preserving and celebrating iconic cars.

Early morning drive in – De Tomaso Panteras – 2014 – Mike Gulett

Valentino Balboni

Valentino Balboni will be in attendance throughout the day at Concorso Italiano where he will select and present the annual Balboni Award.

Valentino Balboni, whose name is synonymous with Lamborghini’s rich history as the long time Lamborghini test driver, shares his excitement about returning to a place he calls his “spiritual home.” From his actual home in Italy, where he is surrounded by memories and the essence of Lamborghini, Valentino brings with him not just knowledge and expertise, but a heart deeply rooted in automotive passion.

Chief Judge – Gary Bobileff

Gary Bobileff, one of the most respected names in the world of Italian car restoration and judging, will return as Chief Judge for Concorso Italiano 2025.

As the founder of Bobileff Motorcar Company, he is renowned for restoring over 30% of the world’s remaining Lamborghini Miuras, earning global recognition for excellence in mechanical and cosmetic restoration.

When asked what makes Concorso so special, Gary shared: “Concorso is a special event—as there’s no snobbery involved. Entrants are true car enthusiasts. It’s casual, fun, and uncomplicated. A great time for all.”