You are a great connoisseur of concours of elegance, and we’ve seen you take part with your rare Bugatti Type 59 in some of the most prestigious events worldwide such as Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach. 2025 was your first year at The I.C.E. St. Moritz. What made you decide to participate?
It wasn’t a difficult decision at all—such a pleasure to be a part of this event, especially given its practical aspect: how it commands active participation, differentiating this gathering from its somewhat more static counterparts. That’s not to say that others aren’t also wonderful occasions, there’s just something particular found in the collaborative spirit, here—it’s not competitive in nature, but rather one feels a sense of community. There’s also something special to be found in both the scale and quality of the event: it’s an intimate, passionate group, bringing together a selection of vehicles with significant historical provenance. The cars are, of course, profoundly beautiful objects, too.
What kind of atmosphere did you find there? How did it compare to other concours?
It’s unique—there’s nothing quite like it—mid-winter on ice! It seems an unlikely setting for warmth and connectivity, but it somehow works beautifully. There’s real joy to be found in this hybrid event which embraces classic concours with wonderfully eccentric additions. The specificity of the location only serves to enhance the collective experience—one underscored by a real reverence. The venue is at the heart of the town in every sense. It’s embraced in its entirety—emotionally and physically: it’s a tangible event—the spectacle, the joy.
You participated in the Open Wheels category and went on to win Best in Class, and finally Best in Show. What does this award mean to you?
It is of course hugely gratifying and humbling. It means a great deal to be the custodian of such an important piece of automotive history. And with that, unquestionably comes a real sense of responsibility to preserve the car for future generations—to provide opportunities to cement its rightful place in public consciousness. Finally, let’s not forget to note the joy of the event providing a rare and utterly exhilarating opportunity to really drive the car: an enormous pleasure and honour.
An award that was handed to you by Lord Norman Foster, who designed it specifically for The I.C.E. St. Moritz. You are, before being a car enthusiast, a renowned designer. What was it like to receive the prize from Lord Foster?
I couldn’t think of a better person, both reputationally, of course, but also personally. St. Moritz is a place very close to his heart—a place of great significance to him. So that connection really served to augment the moment—not to mention the fact that Lord Foster designed the beautiful trophy.
Now this amazing car is the star of the official poster for The I.C.E. 2026. Which car would you like to see take its place next year?
Perhaps a 50s Mille Miglia competition car would be fitting.
