In a previous message, you learned of my impending arrival as the director of the exhibition Rétromobile. Four weeks later, I’m delighted to be able to write to you directly and provide you with the first details of the 2023 event which, after two years of cancellation or postponement due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will be the first “back to normal” edition since 2020. This means back to normal both in terms of the pavilions (1, 2.2 and 3) at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, and its dates (from 1 to 5 February) without forgetting the traditional preview evening which will be held on Tuesday 31 January – save the date!
And it’s now official: the forthcoming edition of Rétromobile will have a distinctly 24 Hours of le Mans feel! The most famous round-the-clock race will be celebrating its centenary in 2023, and is lining up a busy programme of events to mark the occasion in style. Rétromobile will be the starting line for the 2023 festivities and will be welcoming, in addition to the official trophy, two displays on this theme, curated in association with the teams at Automobile Club de l’Ouest.
While we’re on the subject of displays, thanks to the unstinting support of the one and only Thierry Farges, two-wheeler enthusiasts will not be left out, as one of these displays will be shining a light on the prestigious history of a French make which sadly is no more. Finally, to meet the goal that we’ve set ourselves to transmit the passion by which we’re driven to the youngest in our society, a third exceptional exhibition will be set up just for them. Want a clue? A yearning for travel!
There are also a lot of developments afoot among manufacturers, and while our confidentiality obligations mean that we can’t yet unveil the full list of projects in the pipeline, I can already tell you that some of them will leave a lasting impression. An anniversary of an iconic model on the one hand, and the presentation of a quite singular vehicle on the other, will be on the agenda.
The same enthusiasm is evident across the Atlantic, among our American friends, whom I was fortunate to meet in mid-August alongside François Melcion at an exceptional Pebble Beach celebration. Most of them has been deprived of Rétromobile for two years, and all are planning to be back in Paris next February.
Finally, on the partner front, I would like to thank Richard Mille and his teams who, in addition to renewing their support for our show, are working hard in partnership with Ferrari Classiche on the preparation of an unprecedented exhibition assembling some of the finest treasures bearing the hallmark of the prancing horse.
As you have gathered, there are many new developments, and a lot of plans are in the making, so please be assured that the Rétromobile team remains guided by a single priority: to bring you a great and memorable 2023 Rétromobile!
See you from 1 to 5 February at Paris Porte de Versailles in Pavilions 1, 2.2 and 3.
Romain GRABOWSKI
Rétromobile Exhibition Director
