St. Moritz, – The snow-covered Engadin Valley is ready to dazzle the world with its breathtaking winter season. Amidst the various glamorous events scheduled, one stands out as a masterpiece of elegance, history, and automotive artistry: The I.C.E. St. Moritz. This International Concours of Elegance, set to take place on 21 and 22 February 2025, promises an unforgettable showcase of iconic classic cars on the frozen Lake St. Moritz, captivating enthusiasts, collectors, and curious visitors alike.
Since its inception, The I.C.E. has steadily gained a reputation as one of the most exclusive automotive events in the world. Combining the beauty of rare vehicles with the unmatched natural grandeur of the Swiss Alps, the event offers an experience unlike any other. In 2025, the allure of The I.C.E. continues to grow, with a record number of registration requests from global collectors hoping to display their prized machines. As the event draws closer, the excitement in the automotive world is palpable, with all eyes on this remarkable convergence of luxury and innovation.
The Origins of The I.C.E. St. Moritz
The I.C.E. was born from a vision to merge art, culture, and motoring heritage in a singular, magical setting. It was first held as a small, private gathering of classic car enthusiasts who recognised the potential of St. Moritz as the perfect backdrop for celebrating automotive history. Over the years, this humble concept blossomed into an internationally renowned event, attracting car owners, designers, and fans from around the globe.
Key to the event’s enduring appeal is its ability to innovate while remaining true to its roots. Each year, The I.C.E. combines the thrill of classic motoring with the cultural richness of St. Moritz, reinforcing its status as more than just a car show. It is an immersive experience where timeless design and cutting-edge creativity meet.
An Elite Line-Up: The Cars and Their Categories
At the heart of The I.C.E. is, of course, the cars themselves. For 2025, the selection committee has identified five categories that capture the spirit of the event:
- Barchettas on the Lake: Celebrating the timeless elegance of these open-top sports cars.
- Open Wheels: A tribute to the purity of single-seater racing icons.
- Concept Cars & One-Offs: A display of daring designs and engineering marvels that pushed boundaries.
- Icons on Wheels: Honouring vehicles that defined their era and became legends.
- Racing Legends: A thrilling showcase of cars with an illustrious motorsport history.
With each vehicle’s unique story, the challenge for the jury will be immense. These cars are not merely machines; they are works of art, each embodying decades of innovation, craftsmanship, and passion.
The Prestigious Jury of Experts
The task of judging these extraordinary cars falls to a carefully curated panel of internationally renowned experts, each bringing their unique perspective to the table. This year’s jury includes luminaries from the worlds of automotive history, design, fashion, and culture.
Among them is Marco Makaus, founder and patron of The I.C.E. and an esteemed figure in the classic car world. With decades of experience organising events like Mille Miglia and Villa d’Este, his expertise is unparalleled. Joining him is Richard Adatto, a world-leading authority on French automotive styling and a long-serving judge at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Massimo Delbò, a historian and respected journalist for publications such as Octane Magazine, brings deep insight into motoring history. Adding a touch of architectural brilliance is Norman Foster, the iconic British architect behind St. Moritz’s futuristic Chesa Futura.
This year also welcomes Jay Ward, Creative Director at Pixar and a key creative force behind the Cars film franchise, further enhancing the event’s connection to storytelling and design. Additionally, the jury features luminaries like Vanessa Marçais, creator of the GT & Sports Car Cup, and Michele Lupi, a journalist with a flair for style and innovation.
Dynamic Displays: Beyond the Static Exhibition
While the static exhibition of these exquisite vehicles is an unmissable highlight, it is the dynamic activities that truly set The I.C.E. apart. On the second day of the event, the cars take to the icy surface of Lake St. Moritz for exhilarating free laps. This mesmerising spectacle offers a rare opportunity to see these automotive masterpieces in motion, framed by the breathtaking Alpine scenery.
The free laps embody the spirit of the event—a perfect blend of elegance, performance, and fun. The crisp Alpine air, the glint of sunlight on the snow, and the distinctive roar of engines create an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical. It’s no wonder this “ice party” has become one of the most anticipated moments of the year for automotive enthusiasts.
The Visionary Leadership Behind The I.C.E.
An event of this calibre requires exceptional organisation and vision, and The I.C.E. owes its success to a dedicated team led by Marco Makaus. His passion for preserving and celebrating automotive heritage drives every aspect of the event. Supporting him is a network of professionals from various industries, including the local government, which recognises the event’s significance to St. Moritz’s cultural and economic landscape.
The involvement of Christian Jott Jenny, the Mayor of St. Moritz, underscores the strong institutional support for The I.C.E. His participation ensures that the event not only celebrates motoring excellence but also contributes to the community, reinforcing St. Moritz’s reputation as a global luxury destination.
Why The I.C.E. St. Moritz Continues to Thrive
The I.C.E. St. Moritz is much more than an automotive event—it is a celebration of art, craftsmanship, and human ingenuity. Its success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its core values. Each year, the organisers raise the bar, introducing new elements that enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike.
The growing global interest in classic cars has also played a role in The I.C.E.’s rising prominence. In an age of digitalisation, these vehicles represent a tactile connection to history, reminding us of the beauty of human creativity.
