It all started with this year's Geneva Motor Show and continued with the New York Auto Show. Detroit and the Goodwood Festival of Speed were next, and now another major auto show has officially been called off. Organizers for the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance have announced this year's show, initially set to take place on August 16, has been canceled because of Covid-19 outbreak fears.
This year's show would have been something of a milestone as it celebrated its 70th anniversary. Instead, that celebration has been rescheduled for next year's show, on August 15, 2021. Anyone who's already purchased tickets for this year's show can relax as they'll remain valid for next year. Refunds are also available for 2020.
"My heart goes out to all of the people who are involved in the Pebble Beach Concours and who are impacted by this decision," said Concours Chairman Sandra Button. "Many of our entrants have been working on a special car for years, and this was to be their moment. Some of our overseas entrants were nearing the point of putting their cars on boats and planes, and their own travel arrangements have long been made. The same is true for many of our international cadre of judges."
The selection of cars for this year's show had already been completed as entrants received official notification of their acceptance a few weeks ago. Fortunately for them, their cars have already been invited for next year's show.
However, there will still be something to see this year as the press release goes on to state that "features will remain as planned, with a display of past Best in Show winners along the edge of Stillwater Cove, and special classes focusing on Pininfarina coachwork, Porsche 917, Talbot-Lago Grand Sport, Miller racing, Iso, Early Electrics and the Carrera Panamericana." The annual Pebble Beach show has also become known for ultra-exclusive reveals from supercar and exotic brands alike.
Recent examples include last year's Lamborghini Aventador SVJ 63 and Huracan Evo GT Celebration, and the 1,600-hp Bugatti Centodieci.